Following a media report that Fiji's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Filipo Tarakinikini met with Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, the Fijian Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, has reaffirmed its commitment to the One China Policy.
In a statement today, Fiji’s Foreign Ministry says they are taking appropriate steps to address the matter amicably.
They say Fiji values its diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, which are grounded in mutual respect, cooperation, and adherence to the principles of sovereignty and non-interference.
They add the Government remains committed to strengthening the diplomatic ties and ensuring that all official actions align with Fiji’s foreign policy positions and international obligations.
China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and strongly objects to any diplomatic interactions with Taipei, especially by countries with which Beijing has official relations.
Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations.
According to a report by Reuters, Taiwan's presidential office said on Wednesday that Tarakinikini had met Hsiao as part of a delegation of other UN ambassadors, including from the Marshall Islands and Paraguay which are Taiwanese allies.
Hsiao, through their foreign ministry expressed heartfelt thanks to the permanent representatives, as friends of Taiwan, for their longstanding support and assistance, which have helped Taiwan play a meaningful role in the international system, especially within the United Nations system.
The Taiwanese Foreign Ministry, in a separate statement, says Tarakinikini also met and had dinner with Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung.
Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning says the visit severely violates Fiji's commitment to the "One China" principle, which states that both sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of one country.
She says China expresses its strong dissatisfaction with this and has lodged a solemn representation with Fiji.
Ning adds the despicable actions of the Taiwan authorities will not succeed.
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