China says it “firmly opposes” any official exchange between Taiwan and the US

China announced itself on Monday, January 15 “vehemently opposed” For any official exchange between the US and Taiwan, the island's President-elect Lai Ching-te welcomed a US representative after his election victory. “China has always firmly opposed any official exchange between the United States and Taiwan, and has firmly rejected the United States' interference in Taiwan's affairs in any way or under any pretext.Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning told a press conference.

China considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory and aims to reunify it by force if necessary. Beijing does not maintain diplomatic relations with countries that formally recognize Taiwan as an independent country.

Washington described the delegation to Taiwan's capital, Taipei, as unofficial and part of normal protocol. The delegation includes former National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley, former Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg, and Laura Rosenberger, president of the American Academy in Taiwan.

Taiwan accuses China of “diplomatic repression”.

“We urge the United States to recognize the extreme complexity and sensitivity of the Taiwan issue, and truly uphold the One China policy. […] “Reaffirm previous statements by US leaders that they do not support Taiwan independence.”Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning announced.

Washington should “Respect its obligations regarding Taiwan and do not try to use the Taiwan question as a tool to control China […] Don't send wrong signals to Taiwan separatist forces”She added.

Voters in Taiwan gave the pro-independence leader of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, Lai Tsing-tae, an election victory on Saturday. A Chinese spokesman said on Monday that the vote had been held “Local Matter Regarding China”.

Taiwanese officials, for their part, blamed China “Diplomatic Repression” Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, severed its ties with Taipei and now recognizes Beijing after the decision. “As the whole world congratulates Taiwan for its electoral victory, Beijing has launched a diplomatic crackdown that is a response to democratic values ​​and a blatant challenge to the stability of the international order.”Taiwan Presidential Spokesperson Olivia Lin announced.