Beijing: Despite Taiwan’s heightened travel warnings and Beijing’s recent threat to execute separatists, the Chinese government reassured most Taiwanese that they can visit China without undue concern and should do so with enthusiasm.
This week, Taiwan escalated its travel advisory for China, advising citizens against unnecessary travel following China’s announcement of legal guidelines that include severe penalties, including the death penalty, for Taiwan independence advocates.
In a late Friday statement, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office clarified that these guidelines target only a small number of separatists for their “malicious words and actions”. China considers Taiwan, governed democratically, as part of its territory.
China criticized Taiwan for politicizing the issue and intimidating its own people. “The majority of Taiwanese compatriots can engage in cross-strait exchanges and cooperation without worry. They are welcome to visit and depart with high spirits,” the statement affirmed.
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While China vows to pursue perceived Taiwan separatists globally, its legal jurisdiction does not extend to Taiwan, raising questions about the practical enforcement of such penalties outside Chinese borders.
Taiwan’s travel advisory also includes cautionary advice for visits to Hong Kong and Macau.
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Relations have been tense since Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te assumed office, whom China labels a “separatist.” Beijing has conducted military exercises and deployed military assets near Taiwan in response, rejecting Lai’s offers for dialogue while asserting its sovereignty claims.
President Lai maintains Taiwan’s independence as the Republic of China since its retreat to Taiwan in 1949 following the civil war with the Chinese Communists. Taiwan asserts its status as an independent nation, rejecting China’s assertions of authority over the island.
