Diplomatic Dance: Taiwan and Czech Republic Forge Closer Ties Amid Tensions

Czech President Petr Pavel greeted former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen at a conference in Prague. Their meeting comes amid tensions with China, which opposes Taiwan's international engagements. Pavel and Tsai attended the Forum 2000 conference, emphasizing democracy and human rights, without a scheduled bilateral meeting.

In a diplomatic gesture fraught with regional tensions, Czech President Petr Pavel welcomed former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to Prague on Monday. Her visit, part of the Forum 2000 conference, marks a notable interaction in the face of China's disapproval.

The Czech Republic, which shares no official diplomatic ties with Taiwan due to Beijing's claims over the island, has been strengthening its relationship with Taipei amidst rising military threats from China. While Tsai did not meet directly with Pavel, their presence at the forum alongside leaders from around the world highlighted collaborative efforts in promoting democracy and human rights.

Notably, President Pavel has previously called upon China to moderate its stance in the Taiwan Strait and urged diplomatic involvement to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His remarks resonate amid China's recent military exercises near Taiwan, which have drawn international condemnation.

(With inputs from agencies.)