China Opposes Official Exchanges Between US and Taiwan Over 'Resumption of Trade Talks'... Upholds One-China Principle

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] China has expressed opposition after the United States and Taiwan announced the resumption of trade negotiations.

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing on the 11th, when asked about the US and Taiwan's announcement to resume trade talks, "Our position on the Taiwan issue is consistent and clear," adding, "China opposes any form of official exchanges between the United States and Taiwan."

Spokesperson Wang stated, "We oppose countries that have diplomatic relations with China from signing agreements with Taiwan that have an official nature." He continued, "We urge the United States to adhere to the 'One China' principle and the three joint communiques between the US and China (agreements between the two countries concerning mutual non-interference and reduction of arms sales to Taiwan)."

Wang also mentioned, "To avoid damaging US-China relations and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, the United States should stop official exchanges with Taiwan and refrain from sending wrong signals to Taiwan independence separatist forces."

Earlier, Katherine Tai, US Trade Representative (USTR), and Deng Janzhong, head of Taiwan's Trade Negotiation Office, held a virtual meeting the previous day and agreed to hold the 11th round of the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) negotiations within weeks.