China's Diplomatic Pressure
REPORTER:
Taiwan is hitting back against China’s latest efforts to put pressure on Taipei’s diplomatic allies. On Monday, Beijing sanctioned officials from Paraguay and Belize, two of the twelve countries that still have official ties with Taiwan.
Cho Jung-tai (TAIWAN PREMIER):
The People's Republic of China has no right to interfere
in the domestic affairs
or to influence the foreign relations
of any sovereign independent state
including the Republic of China (Taiwan).
We will continue to work even more closely with
diplomatic allies and other democracies.
REPORTER:
The sanctions targets are Paraguay's communications minister Gustavo Villate and Belize's foreign minister Francis Fonseca. Beijing accused them both of violating its core interests. Sanctions include entry bans and preventing Chinese organizations or individuals from cooperating or trading with them. Both ministers have been public supporters of Taiwan. Villate has promoted bilateral cooperation between Taiwan and Paraguay and Fonseca has visited Taiwan twice, including attending President Lai Ching-te's inauguration.
REPORTER:
Taiwan officials say the sanctions show China is expanding its efforts to repress the country.
Chiu Chui-cheng (MINISTER, MAINLAND AFFAIRS COUNCIL):
This represents a new pattern of
transnational repression targeting Taiwan.
This will only lead to cross-strait relations
deteriorating further.
We strongly condemn such behavior
and we'll take appropriate measures to respond
to this new form of transnational repression.
REPORTER:
Paraguay and Belize have doubled down on their ties with Taiwan. Villate said on social media that the country would accelerate all joint digital infrastructure projects with Taiwan. Paraguay's foreign ministry added that it rejected the sanctions, reaffirming its support for Taiwan and its commitment to democratic values. Belize’s foreign ministry said it has the right to conduct its foreign policy free from external pressure, remains committed to peaceful relations with all states, and that these measures would not alter its foreign policy.
REPORTER:
Experts say these sanctions are to discourage other countries from offering similar support to Taiwan.
Chen Shih-min (NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY):
[The sanctions’ purpose is] to divide
political figures in Taiwan’s diplomatic allies
and make examples out of [them]
deterring the emergence of more politicians
who are pro-Taiwan.
REPORTER:
The US State Department said it opposes coercion and aggression by China in the Western hemisphere, adding that it stands with friends and partners, including Taiwan.
REPORTER:
Many countries will be closely watching to see whether China’s efforts in transnational repression continue to expand.
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