TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday rejected China’s claim that its WTO role depends on the so-called “one China” principle.
The ministry said Taiwan is a member of the WTO as a “separate customs territory” with equal rights, per CNA. It dismissed Beijing’s position as politically motivated and unfounded.
The dispute followed an incident at the WTO’s 14th Ministerial Conference in Cameroon, where Taiwan was listed as “Taiwan, Province of China.” The move prevented Taiwanese officials from attending the meeting, CNA reported.
China’s foreign ministry said Taiwan’s participation in international organizations must adhere to the “one China” principle. It described the policy as a political prerequisite for involvement in the WTO.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said this claim is incorrect, stressing that Taiwan’s membership is based on Article 12 of the Marrakesh Agreement and grants full autonomy. It accused Beijing of trying to mislead the international community and restrict Taiwan’s global participation.
The ministry reiterated that Taiwan is a sovereign entity and said only its democratically elected government can represent its people internationally. It urged the global community to resist political pressure and support Taiwan’s rights in multilateral forums.
