China’s government expressed its criticism of the United States plans to sign a trade treaty with Taiwan, urging Washington to cease official contact with the self-ruled island. The move by the U.S. comes at a time when China has been escalating efforts to intimidate Taiwan through military activities near the island. Several American and European politicians have shown support for Taiwan’s democratically elected government through visits.
Accusations of Violating Agreements and Sovereign Connotations
The Chinese foreign ministry accused the United States of violating agreements regarding the status of Taiwan, a region that has been separate from mainland China since 1949. While the U.S. maintains no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it has significant informal connections and a substantial annual trade relationship. China called on the U.S. to refrain from engaging in official exchanges with Taiwan, negotiating agreements with sovereign implications, or sending signals supportive of Taiwanese independence.
The U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade
The trade agreement, known as the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade, aims to enhance trade between the two entities by streamlining customs procedures, investment regulations, and other trade-related rules. The agreement is expected to be signed by representatives from the unofficial channels that facilitate communication between the U.S. and Taiwan, with trade officials from both sides in attendance at the ceremony.
