TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Two Chinese have been denied entry to the World Masters Games in Taiwan due to security concerns, the Mainland Affairs Council confirmed Thursday.

MAC Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh (梁文傑) said, “We have received public reports that some Chinese participants planned to use the event to push political agendas and cause disruption,” per CNA. "In such cases, we have no choice but to reject their entry," the minister said.

Liang said the MAC has approved entry for 371 Chinese athletes in the international games. He said the ministry has assisted them with special entry procedures.

However, the two athletes were rejected because they intended to disrupt the event with political messages, Liang said. These actions included displaying the Chinese national flag and advocating for unification by force.

Taipei's Department of Sports Commissioner Yu Zhu-ping (游竹萍) said national flags can not be displayed in official areas, including sports venues and medal ceremonies. He said this is because athletes are invited to compete as individuals rather than on behalf of national teams. 

However, spectators can carry flags in the stands, Yu added. There are also no restrictions on athletes’ attire. 

Liang said that any athletes who choose to engage in politically or socially disruptive behavior will see their entry permits revoked and will be subject to deportation.