Chinese diplomats have been reportedly urging lawmakers from at least six countries to refrain from attending a summit in Taiwan organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. Lawmakers from Bolivia, Colombia, Slovakia, North Macedonia, Bosnia, and another Asian country have disclosed receiving texts, calls, and meeting requests from Chinese officials trying to dissuade them from visiting Taiwan, with the intention of isolating the self-governed island. The summit, set to commence on Monday, aims to gather hundreds of lawmakers from various countries to discuss democratic approaches towards China.
Messages reviewed by The Associated Press showed Chinese diplomats inquiring whether lawmakers had intentions of participating in the conference in Taiwan, such as a message sent to North Macedonia’s parliament member Antonio Miloshoski. Some lawmakers also reported receiving vague inquiries about their travel plans to Taiwan, while others described the communications as more direct and intimidating, including demands to prevent their visit to Taiwan.
Despite facing pressure from Chinese officials, some lawmakers remained determined to attend the summit, expressing resilience against Beijing’s efforts to influence their decisions. China staunchly upholds its claim over Taiwan, considering it a part of its territory that must be unified, even by force if necessary. Recent criticisms directed at Taiwan included disapproval of its military drills by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, with Chinese officials cautioning against any actions leading to independence.
The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, a group dedicated to coordinating responses to perceived threats from Beijing, has encountered pushback and interference from Chinese authorities. Luke de Pulford, the alliance’s director, highlighted the unprecedented level of pressure exerted by Chinese officials to deter lawmakers from attending the summit, labeling it as unacceptable foreign interference and a breach of diplomatic norms.
Despite China’s attempts to sway participants, about 25 countries are expected to be represented at the summit, where high-level discussions with Taiwanese officials are anticipated. While China has been successful in enticing some of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, such as Nauru, to switch recognition, its aggressive tactics have met resistance from nations like Lithuania and the European Union, which have taken actions against Beijing for its behavior towards Taiwan.
Lawmakers targeted by Chinese diplomats expressed their determination to attend the summit, viewing it as an opportunity to exchange insights on addressing China’s challenges and supporting Taiwan’s democratic values. Bolivian Senator Centa Rek and Slovakian Member of the European Parliament Miriam Lexmann were among those who refused to yield to Chinese pressure, emphasizing their commitment to participating in the Taiwan summit. The actions of Chinese officials have sparked criticism for overstepping international protocols and attempting to interfere with the decisions of foreign legislators.
