Taiwan recognises Canada solidarity before Prime Minister China meeting – Firstpost

Taiwan president Lai Ching te voices gratitude to Canada amid rising China tensions. The exchange highlights growing unofficial bonds despite Beijings persistent military posturing around the island.

Lai praises bilateral progress

Taiwan President Lai Ching te warmly received a Canadian parliamentary group on Tuesday expressing deep thanks for Ottawas steady backing during recent aggressive Chinese military exercises near the island. He outlined notable advances in trade technology and investment ties over recent years including a pivotal agreement sealed in 2023 that has bolstered economic collaboration. Lai stressed that these developments signal a maturing partnership yielding tangible benefits for both sides even as formal diplomatic recognition remains absent given Canadas one China policy stance. The meeting occurred at Taipeis presidential office where Lai underscored the mutual gains from sustained engagement.

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Acknowledgement of Canadian support

Lai specifically commended Canadas prompt public statement last month voicing alarm over Beijings large scale war games encircling Taiwan. He noted that Ottawas firm opposition to any unilateral moves altering the Taiwan Strait status quo reflects a broader global agreement on preserving regional peace and stability. Canadian naval vessels have periodically transited the strait most recently in September drawing sharp rebuke from Beijing which views such passages as provocative. Lai framed this support as vital reassurance that Taiwan enjoys allies committed to deterring coercive actions and upholding navigational freedoms in these contested waters.

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Conservative lawmakers affirm friendship

The delegation comprised mainly opposition Conservative Party members including deputy leader Melissa Lantsman who affirmed Taiwans status as a reliable partner. Lantsman declared their presence carried a straightforward message of solidarity assuring Taiwanese citizens of friendships within Canadas legislature. She emphasised the groups sincere intent to stand with Taiwan against mounting pressures from the mainland. Taiwans foreign ministry separately minimised the impact of two Liberal Party lawmakers cutting short their Taiwan visit earlier this week following government guidance to align with foreign policy ahead of Prime Minister Mark Carneys upcoming Beijing trip.

Navigating diplomatic sensitivities

The early exit of the Liberal duo aimed to sidestep any perceived misalignment with Canadas official positions as Carney prepares for talks in China starting Wednesday. Those discussions will cover trade dynamics and global security matters at a juncture when Ottawa grapples with fraught relations across the border. US President Donald Trumps trade hostilities and territorial rhetoric towards Canada add layers of complexity to Carneys agenda complicating Trans Pacific alignments. Taiwan officials expressed confidence that routine parliamentary exchanges will persist undeterred by such scheduling adjustments.

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Broader implications for stability

This interaction unfolds against Beijings stepped up coercion including frequent air and sea incursions testing Taiwans defences. Lai avoided direct reference to Carneys China itinerary during the public remarks focusing instead on shared interests in strait tranquillity. The episode illustrates Taiwans deft diplomacy in cultivating like minded supporters worldwide while Beijing intensifies its claims. Canadas balanced approach blending economic pragmatism with security concerns positions it as a key player in these dynamics. As tensions simmer both sides eye deeper cooperation to counterbalance pressures without triggering escalation. Sustained dialogue remains crucial for all stakeholders invested in averting conflict.

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