TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) challenged the “one China” framework in Taiwan’s diplomacy during a radio interview on Monday.

Taiwan’s relations with some countries are not tied to whether they adhere to a “one China” policy, Lin said on POP Radio’s news program. As Taiwan’s national strength continues to grow and more countries seek to engage with it, he questioned, “Why should Taiwan be constrained by ‘one China’?”

He added that when some countries repeatedly invoke “one China,” it raises challenges for encouraging business investment, noting that the issue involves sovereignty and the protection of corporate property rights.

When asked about China’s efforts to lure away Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, Lin said China’s Belt and Road Initiative has caused problems for recipient countries. Taiwan’s model of cooperation is based on its own development experience, he said.

Regarding China’s plan to offer zero tariffs to African countries this year, excluding Taiwan ally Eswatini, Lin acknowledged that China’s policy puts pressure on Taiwan. However, he said Taiwan’s ties with Eswatini remain strong.

Bilateral cooperation with Eswatini, he said, has drawn admiration from neighboring countries.

On future transits to the US, Lin said the US always welcomes President Lai Ching-te (賴清德). He noted that Taiwan needs to consider factors such as the situation in the Middle East and potential US-China high-level meetings when planning transits.