Taiwan expressed disappointment after Thailand reaffirmed its support for the One China policy in a joint statement issued following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s official visit to China.
Anutin and senior Thai government officials visited China from July 16 to 20 before the two countries released a joint statement outlining future cooperation and bilateral relations. The statement reaffirmed Thailand’s longstanding position on the One China policy, saying…
“Thailand reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the One China policy, recognising the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.
Thailand supports peaceful reunification and will not support any claims of Taiwanese independence. Furthermore, Thailand will support China’s ‘one country, two systems’ policy.”
Following the publication of the statement, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a response criticising the position and expressing disappointment with the Thai government’s stance.
In its statement, the ministry said China had repeatedly made what it described as false claims regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty and said Taiwan strongly opposed those assertions.
The ministry also expressed disappointment that Thailand had aligned with China’s position and urged the country to value its long-standing relationship with Taiwan.
“As Taiwan and Thailand enjoy close commercial and trade ties, as well as robust people-to-people exchanges, Taiwan urges Thailand to cherish the long-standing friendship between the two countries and refrain from constantly aligning with China’s efforts to suppress Taiwan.”
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament yesterday, July 23, Anutin said Thailand’s support for the One China policy was not a new position and had been maintained throughout its diplomatic relationship with China.
The PM said Thailand welcomed cooperation with Taiwan provided it did not conflict with its policy towards China.
Anutin acknowledged Taiwan’s response but said Thailand’s position remained clear. He added that he saw no need for additional diplomatic discussions with Taiwan on the issue and did not believe the matter would affect relations between the two sides.
Asked about criticism on social media and possible implications for Taiwan’s visa-free policy for Thai visitors or Thai nationals working in Taiwan, Anutin declined to comment.
The story Anutin doubles down on China support, Taiwan disappointed as seen on Thaiger News.
