China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, has reasserted China's sovereignty over Taiwan and the South China Sea following Taiwan's presidential inauguration. The U.S. and several of its allies, including Britain, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Japan, have called for Taiwan to be allowed to participate in a key meeting of the World Health Organization next week.
China's Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the recent inauguration of Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, and a standoff between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin reaffirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province, and over the South China Sea, which it claims almost entirely.
Wang's statement came amidst heightened tensions in the region following Taiwan's presidential inauguration on Monday. The U.S. and several of its allies issued a joint statement calling for Taiwan to be allowed to participate in a key meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) next week.
However, China has consistently opposed Taiwan's participation in international organizations, arguing that it is not a sovereign state. Wang reiterated this stance, stating that there is no "political basis" for Taiwan's WHA participation since its government does not accept the "one China" principle.
The U.S. and its allies have repeatedly called for Taiwan's inclusion in the WHO, citing its important contributions to global health. Taiwan's Health Minister, Chiu Tai-yuan, said a delegation would travel to Geneva for meetings on the sidelines with friendly countries.
Meanwhile, in the South China Sea, China and the Philippines are engaged in a standoff over the disputed Scarborough Shoal. The Philippines has accused China of "illegal incursions" into its waters, while China insists it has the right to patrol the area.
Wang accused the Philippines of "deliberately provoking" the situation and urged it to withdraw its vessels from the shoal. He warned that China would "resolutely defend" its sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea.
The Philippines has dismissed China's claims, asserting its sovereign rights over Scarborough Shoal. The standoff has raised concerns about potential military escalation in the region.
China's foreign ministry has also criticized the U.S. for its support of Taiwan and its "provocative" military activities in the South China Sea. Wang urged the U.S. to "respect China's sovereignty and security interests" and to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.
The escalating tensions between China and its neighbors have raised fears of armed conflict and have put a strain on diplomatic relations. Despite international calls for dialogue and cooperation, China remains adamant in its claims and has vowed to defend its interests by any means necessary.
