The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) has publicly condemned efforts by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to dissuade international lawmakers from attending its annual summit in Taipei, Taiwan. In a statement released on Monday, IPAC highlighted that several of its members were contacted by PRC diplomatic officials in a bid to intimidate them into cancelling their trips.
According to the statement, “[e]ight lawmakers in at least five countries reported receiving emails and/or phone calls from PRC diplomatic officials prior to their departure for the IPAC [s]ummit in Taipei.” The Associated Press confirmed that politicians from Bolivia, Colombia, Slovakia, North Macedonia, and Bosnia were among those approached. This interference has been labeled “gross foreign interference” by IPAC Executive Director Luke de Pulford.
IPAC, which consists of lawmakers from 35 democratic countries and focuses on China-related issues, is holding its fourth annual summit on July 30 in Taipei. With 48 lawmakers from 24 countries in attendance, this marks the largest parliamentary delegation ever to visit Taiwan in an institutional capacity. The summit seeks to foster deeper ties and dialogue concerning relations with the PRC.
The PRC’s efforts to prevent lawmakers from attending the summit included tactics detailed by lawmakers themselves. Sanela Klarić, a Bosnian parliament member, revealed that Chinese diplomats attempted to pressure her party leader to prevent her attendance. Similarly, Bolivian Senator Centa Rek received a visit from a Chinese diplomat who said the organization hosting the summit was “not accepted within the terms of the policy of mainland China” and criticized Taiwan’s government, calling it an “imposter.” Rek lodged a formal complaint, deeming the approach an “unacceptable intrusion.”
Historically, China has penalized countries recognizing Taiwan’s independence or supporting it through measures such as trade restrictions and sanctions. The recent pressure tactics employed against IPAC members highlight ongoing tensions and China’s commitment to its “One China” policy, which denies Taiwan’s sovereignty.
By condemning the actions of the PRC, IPAC underscores the broader implications of such diplomatic interference, which it sees as an attempt to undermine democratic privileges and disrupt Taiwan’s legitimate diplomatic activities. For more details, visit the original article on JURIST.