US accuses China of pressuring states, firms to avoid Taiwan ties

The United States has accused China of pressuring U.S. state and local governments and businesses to limit engagement with Taiwan, while Taipei thanked Western allies for condemning recent Chinese maritime activities. In rare public letters dated June 16, the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, and Agriculture urged governors and companies to deepen ties with Taiwan, calling such engagement “fully compatible” with U.S. policy. Source: Infobae The letters also warned that Chinese officials “misrepresent” U.S. policy and advised recipients to contact the State Department if pressured.

China's position

China reiterated its opposition to any official U.S.-Taiwan exchanges. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun stated that Washington must honor the one-China principle and commitments made in the three joint communiqués. Source: El Día China’s embassy and consulates in the U.S. have reportedly contacted officials to discourage engagement with Taiwan. Source: Infobae

Taiwan's response and maritime tensions

Taiwan’s National Security Council secretary-general Joseph Wu thanked the U.S., UK, France, and Germany for criticizing China’s recent “special maritime control operation” east of Taiwan. Source: Infobae Taiwan reports over 100 Chinese official vessels near the island in June, up from 44 in May, which it calls “harassment” that violates international law. Source: Infobae Western partners warned the operation threatens regional stability and freedom of navigation. Source: Infobae