Taiwan has lodged a formal protest against China over the manner of its invitation to the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen. Beijing contacted Taiwan solely via email rather than personally delivering the invitation, which is standard diplomatic protocol. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung stated the breach of established rules would not deter participation.
The incident highlights Beijing's continued hostility toward Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party administration. Previously, when China hosted APEC in 2014, invitations were personally signed by President Xi Jinping and addressed to the sitting president. This time, the email was addressed only to "the representative of Chinese Taipei's economic leader" and lacked Xi's signature.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and opposes moves treating the island as sovereign. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, elected in 2024, insists on equal treatment on the world stage. APEC participation for Taiwan occurs under the name "Chinese Taipei," with its president not attending the annual leaders' meeting.
The diplomatic slight underscores rising tensions as China increases pressure on Lai's administration.
Source: Bloomberg Markets · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing