China censures Czech Republic over visit of ‘Taiwan independence separatist’

Beijing's reaction comes as Czech official says vice regional leader of Taiwan was followed by Chinese embassy staff to 'the point of endangering'

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - China on Friday censured the Czech Republic over the visit of "Taiwan independence separatist" to the country.

"By allowing diehard 'Taiwan independence' separatist Hsiao Bi-khim to visit the Czech Republic seriously violates the one-China principle and its political commitment to China, and grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said during a news conference in Beijing.

Beijing "has expressed its strong concern and firm opposition," Guo stated.

Hsiao, vice regional leader of Taiwan, had visited the country last year.

Spokesman for the Czech Military Intelligence Service, Jan Pejsek, said Thursday that she was followed by "amongst others, by individuals holding diplomatic posts at the Chinese Embassy in Prague," to "the point of endangering," during her visit, reported Radio Prague International.

"Let me stress that Chinese diplomats always observe the laws and regulations of host countries," Guo said in answer to the allegations, and added: "China urges relevant party to avoid being incited or used by 'Taiwan independence' forces, and refrain from creating troubles, spreading rumors, and disrupting and undermining the bilateral relations."

China considers Taiwan its breakaway province, whereas the latter insists on independence.

Kaynak:

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