Diplomatic Row Erupts Over Taiwan Vice-President's EU Visit
China has lodged a strong diplomatic protest with the European Union after Taiwan's Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim attended and addressed a meeting of lawmakers in the European Parliament in Brussels on Friday, November 7, 2025. Beijing stated that the visit 'gravely violates the one-China principle,' constitutes 'serious interference in China's internal affairs,' and 'severely undermines political mutual trust between China and the EU'.
The protest was formally issued by the Chinese Mission to the European Union on Saturday, November 8, 2025, expressing 'strong indignation and firm opposition' to the event.
Hsiao Bi-khim Addresses Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China
Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim, who previously served as Taiwan's envoy to Washington, spoke at the annual summit of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC). This gathering, described as an unofficial conference of lawmakers, took place within the European Parliament building. During her address, Hsiao emphasized Taiwan's commitment to democratic values and its crucial role in global supply chains, particularly in the semiconductor industry. She called for closer security and trade ties between the EU and Taiwan, stating that 'peace in the Taiwan Strait is essential to global stability and economic continuity'.
Hsiao's visit was kept largely undisclosed until shortly before her arrival due to security concerns, including past reports of alleged plots by Chinese agents to intimidate her during a visit to the Czech Republic in March 2024.
Beijing Condemns 'Separatist Activities'
China views the Taiwan question as a matter of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, considering it a 'red line that cannot be crossed' and purely an internal affair. The Chinese Mission to the EU criticized the European Parliament for allowing 'Taiwan independence' figures to conduct 'separatist activities' within its premises despite China's objections. Beijing urged the EU to cease supporting such activities and to refrain from sending 'wrong signals' to 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, emphasizing the need to uphold the political foundation of China-EU relations.
EU's 'One China' Policy and Engagement with Taiwan
The European Union officially adheres to a 'One China' policy, recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China. However, the EU also maintains robust relations and cooperation with Taiwan across various sectors, including trade, economics, and technology. The EU supports the peaceful resolution of differences across the Taiwan Strait and has stated that its 'One China' policy does not preclude intensifying cooperation with Taiwan. Taiwan, for its part, asserts its right to engage with other countries and maintains that China has no authority to dictate Taipei's international actions.
5 Comments
Habibi
China's 'red line' is just bullying. Taiwan needs international allies.
Muchacha
Great to see Taiwan's VP speaking out. Their semiconductor industry is vital!
Mariposa
The economic importance of Taiwan, especially in tech, makes closer ties with the EU understandable. However, Beijing's strong reaction underscores the deep political sensitivities that can't be ignored for long-term stability.
Leonardo
While Taiwan has a right to engage internationally and promote its democratic values, China views this as a direct challenge to its sovereignty. The EU's 'One China' policy makes such interactions inherently delicate.
Habibi
Supporting democratic partners is a noble goal for the EU, yet it must weigh this against the potential for significant diplomatic and economic repercussions from China. A more consistent and clear policy from the EU might reduce ambiguity.