AIT Denounces China's Escalatory Regulations Against Taiwan Independence Advocates

AIT condemns China's new regulations targeting Taiwan's independence supporters as destabilizing. They urge China to maintain dialogue with Taiwan. China introduced penalties, including the death penalty, for pro-independence advocates. The US and the EU have criticized China's approach, advocating for peaceful resolution and respect for Taiwan's democracy.

The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) has condemned China's newly introduced regulations targeting Taiwan's independence advocates, labeling them as "escalatory and destabilizing." AIT has called on China to engage in constructive dialogue with Taiwan and preserve the status quo that has maintained regional peace for years.

According to Taiwan's Central News Agency (CNA), AIT, the de facto US embassy in Taiwan, strongly criticized these new regulations aimed at prominent independence advocates. AIT asserted that these measures are unlikely to ease the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) recently introduced a website section identifying staunch advocates of Taiwan's independence, including Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Defence Minister Wellington Koo. The guidelines, effective from June 21, allow China to prosecute Taiwan independence supporters in absentia, imposing severe penalties, including the death penalty for serious secession-related offences. Taipei has strongly condemned these actions, particularly criticizing the draconian punishments such as the death penalty.

According to Xinhua, the new Chinese directives target those advocating for "Taiwan independence," with the death penalty designated for significant state harm, and long prison terms for others involved. Taiwan has rejected these regulations, asserting that Beijing lacks legal jurisdiction over Taiwan and dismissing the guidelines as non-binding on its citizens.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) described the measures as provocative and damaging to cross-strait relations, advising Taiwanese nationals in China to exercise caution. China's intensified pressure highlights its longstanding claim that Taiwan remains an inseparable part of its territory, despite Taiwan's effective self-governance since 1949. The tensions have been further exacerbated by Taiwan's international diplomatic efforts and Beijing's attempts to isolate Taiwan.

The US has frequently expressed concerns about China's aggressive stance towards Taiwan. American officials and lawmakers have condemned China's military threats and assertive actions in the Taiwan Strait. The US supports Taiwan's democratic government and remains apprehensive about China's isolation tactics against Taiwan.

Both the US and the EU have criticized China's new punitive measures against Taiwan's independence advocates. The EU, emphasizing political human rights and rule of law, advocates for peaceful dialogue and respect for Taiwan's democratic processes.

(With inputs from agencies.)