China lodged a protest on Thursday against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent comments expressing a desire for closer ties with Taiwan, urging New Delhi to resist what it termed as Taiwan's "political calculations." Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province that must be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary. "There is no such thing as 'president' of the Taiwan region," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated during a media briefing. Mao emphasized that China opposes all forms of official interaction between Taiwan and countries that have diplomatic relations with China. "There is but one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People’s Republic of China," she asserted.
Mao reiterated that the one-China principle is a universally recognized norm in international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community. "India has made serious political commitments on this and is supposed to recognize, be alarmed about, and resist the Taiwan authorities’ political calculations. China has protested to India about this," she added. Modi's comments came in response to a congratulatory message from Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Modi's election victory. Lai, who was elected as Taiwan's President last month, had tweeted his congratulations to Modi, expressing hope for enhanced partnerships in trade, technology, and other sectors between Taiwan and India.
"My sincere congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his election victory. We look forward to enhancing the fast-growing #Taiwan-#India partnership, expanding our collaboration on trade, technology & other sectors to contribute to peace & prosperity in the #IndoPacific," Lai posted on X (formerly Twitter). Modi responded on X, saying, "Thank you @ChingteLai for your warm message. I look forward to closer ties as we work towards mutually beneficial economic and technological partnership."
During the briefing, Mao reiterated China's stance, reminding that India has diplomatic relations with China and should recognize the implications of engaging with Taiwan. "China opposes all forms of official interactions between the Taiwan authorities and countries having diplomatic relations with China. This position is very clear, and India knows this well," she said. In his inaugural address on May 20, President Lai called on Beijing to end its intimidation of Taiwan. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which Lai represents, has championed democracy amid growing threats from China.
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