Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung announced on Tuesday that the government will launch countermeasures to protect its APEC participation rights. He made the statement after Beijing linked Taiwan’s attendance at next year’s summit to its “one China” principle.
China plans to host the 2026 APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen. The event will mark an important moment in regional diplomacy. However, tensions have flared after China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Taiwan’s attendance must follow the “one China” principle and related APEC rules.
Lin said China had earlier pledged in writing to ensure Taiwan’s safe and equal participation in APEC events. Yet Beijing’s recent comments added what he called an “extra condition,” violating its earlier promise. As a result, Taiwan will take diplomatic action to defend its APEC participation rights and work closely with democratic partners.
According to Lin, other APEC members witnessed China’s written assurance. He said Beijing’s new position breaks that commitment. He emphasized that APEC makes decisions by consensus, so all members, including Taiwan, must agree before any resolution passes.
During a legislative session in Taipei, Lin reaffirmed that Taiwan would not accept attempts to limit or downgrade its representation. He stressed that APEC participation rights are essential to Taiwan’s international presence and credibility in global forums.
When asked about a possible boycott, Deputy Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council Shen Yu-chung said it was too early to decide. Still, he noted that Taiwan remains focused on protecting its interests through diplomacy.
The United States also voiced support for Taiwan’s position. A State Department spokesperson said Washington would continue pressing Beijing to guarantee the safety and fair treatment of all APEC participants. The spokesperson added that all member economies, including Taiwan, should join on equal terms under APEC’s established rules.
Observers see this issue as part of the broader struggle between Taiwan and China over international representation. Analysts expect the dispute to intensify before the 2026 APEC summit as regional tensions grow.
Lin reiterated that Taiwan remains open to dialogue but will never compromise its dignity or sovereignty. He concluded that APEC participation rights represent Taiwan’s determination to stay active in the global community despite mounting pressure.