China has urged the Republic of Korea (ROK) to exercise caution regarding the Taiwan question and the South China Sea issue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stable China-ROK relations.
On Monday, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the ROK expressed concerns over recent deputy foreign ministers’ consultations and defense ministers’ meetings held between the ROK, the United States, and Japan. During these meetings, the ROK reportedly made remarks on the Taiwan question and the South China Sea issue that China considers erroneous.
“Such actions have grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs, maliciously smeared and attacked China, and seriously violated China’s sovereignty and core interests,” the spokesperson stated. “China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes such acts, and has lodged stern representations with the ROK side.”
The spokesperson reaffirmed China’s stance that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and that the Taiwan question is purely an internal affair that brooks no external interference. “The one-China principle is the anchor of peace across the Taiwan Strait, as well as the prerequisite and foundation for China to establish and develop relations with all other countries,” the spokesperson added.
Highlighting the importance of adherence to the one-China principle, the spokesperson warned that any failure to oppose “Taiwan independence” equates to conniving with separatist forces, which would only undermine peace and stability across the Strait.
“No one should underestimate the strong determination of the Chinese people to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the spokesperson emphasized. “Any attempt to step on or cross the line on the Taiwan question without paying a price is a miscalculation.”
China’s call for caution comes amid heightened regional tensions and underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations in East Asia. The Chinese government urges the ROK to take practical actions to maintain the overall situation of China-ROK relations.
Reference(s):
China urges ROK caution on Taiwan question, South China Sea issue
cgtn.com
