TAIPEI (Taiwan News)—The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday denounced Somalia's decision to ban Taiwan passport holders as being instigated by China.

The ministry said that the Somali Civil Aviation Authority on April 22 issued a notice stating that all passports and related travel documents issued by Taiwan or its affiliated institutions would be invalid for entry into, exit from, or transit through Somalia starting April 30. It said its decision was based on Somalia’s adherence to the "one China" principle under UN Resolution 2758.

MOFA protested the move, accusing Somalia of “acting under China's instigation.” It also condemned Somalia’s “erroneous interpretation of UN Resolution 2758” and linking it to the “one China principle,” which it said is an attempt to create the illusion that Taiwan is subordinate to China.

The ministry said Taiwan is engaging with the Somaliland government to urge countries and international organizations to reverse wrongful measures. MOFA also urged Taiwanese nationals to avoid traveling to both the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Somaliland until the Somali government rescinds its ban.

MOFA said that since declaring independence in 1991, the Republic of Somaliland has held four presidential elections and maintains political stability. It called it a like-minded partner that shares Taiwan’s values of democracy and freedom. 

It said the Somali government’s attempt to obstruct exchanges between people from democratic nations by asserting control over Somaliland’s airspace has harmed the situation in the Horn of Africa.