Tensions are rising ahead of next year’s APEC summit in Shenzhen, as Taiwan’s foreign minister Lin Chia-lung accused China of breaking a prior commitment to allow the island’s “equal participation.” The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum is one of the few international organizations that includes both Taiwan and China.
Why It Matters
The dispute underscores deepening cross-strait tensions as Beijing ramps up political and military pressure on Taipei. The APEC summit offers a rare venue for Taiwan’s engagement in global affairs, making any restrictions politically sensitive.
Taiwan says China promised “equal participation” and safety guarantees for its delegates when seeking to host the 2025 summit.
China now insists Taiwan’s participation must comply with the “one China” principle, which Taipei rejects.
Lin accused Beijing of violating its written commitment and vowed to work with like-minded nations to counter the move.
Taiwan attends APEC as “Chinese Taipei” and does not send its president to avoid diplomatic friction.
Relations were far smoother when China last hosted APEC in 2014, under Taiwan’s then-president Ma Ying-jeou.
What’s Next
Taipei is expected to raise the issue diplomatically with other APEC members, seeking support to ensure its participation remains unhindered and secure amid growing Chinese assertiveness.
With information from Reuters.
