Beijing: China called on India to handle Taiwan-related matters with care following Taiwan’s announcement of its new office’s operation in Mumbai. The Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned any official contacts between Taiwan and countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China, urging India to uphold the “one-China principle,” which underpins India-China relations.
This statement followed the inauguration of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) in Mumbai, Taiwan’s third office in India, which took place on Wednesday. During a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that India should “prudently and properly” address Taiwan-related issues and refrain from any official interactions with Taiwan to facilitate better relations with China.
Mao stated, “There is but one China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. China strongly opposes all forms of official contact between Taiwan and countries with diplomatic ties to China.” The Ministry has formally protested to India regarding this matter.
The new TECC office will support four major western Indian states—Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Goa—along with the Union Territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, according to an official release.
Ambassador Baushuan Ger, head of the TECC in India, attended the opening, alongside Director General Homer Chang of the new office. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Chia-Lung Lin recorded a congratulatory video, highlighting the significant advancements in India-Taiwan relations.
He noted that the Mumbai office, situated in a strategic western hub, reflects the success of Taiwan’s “New Southbound Policy” and India’s “Act East Policy,” symbolizing a commitment to enhance bilateral ties. This office follows the establishment of TECC in New Delhi in 1995 and Chennai in 2012.
This development occurs amid rising tensions in the South China Sea and increased military activities by Chinese forces in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding regions.
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