Taiwan and Hong Kong Reject Acceptance of 'One China Consent Form'

Consent Form Required from Taiwan Organization Staff in Hong Kong... Prerequisite for Visa Issuance

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Taiwan media reported on the 17th that Hong Kong authorities demanded a 'One-China agreement' from the staff of the Taiwan office in Hong Kong. China adheres to the 'One-China' principle, viewing Taiwan not as an independent country but as part of its territory.

According to Taiwan's United Daily News and Liberty Times, Chen Ming-tong, Chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council, Taiwan's agency responsible for China, disclosed this during a briefing the previous day while explaining the Taiwanese government's stance on the Hong Kong National Security Law.

Chairman Chen stated that the Hong Kong government demanded such a 'political condition' as a prerequisite for issuing a visa to Lu Chang-shui, who was scheduled to be appointed as the head of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Hong Kong, saying, "This is absolutely unacceptable." He added that the Hong Kong government must guarantee, in consultation with Taiwan, that TECO will not be subject to any political interference.

He further explained that efforts would be made to avoid withdrawing TECO to maintain normal exchanges between Taiwan and Hong Kong, but if any issues arise with TECO, Taiwan would take responsive measures.

He also emphasized that the Hong Kong government would not provide materials requested under the Hong Kong National Security Law and would not engage in negotiations related to this matter.

The United Daily News added that during President Chen Shui-bian's administration, relations between Taiwan and Hong Kong were relatively flexible, but relations have cooled since Chinese President Xi Jinping took office and President Tsai Ing-wen was elected.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.