China Defends Entry Ban on New Zealand Lawmakers Over Taiwan Visit
According to Chinese officials, the lawmakers received a one-year travel ban after taking part in a cross-party delegation that visited Taiwan in May.
Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the restrictions were imposed because the lawmakers' activities violated the one-China principle and amounted to interference in China's internal affairs.
She called on the politicians to respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and adhere to the one-China policy, adding: "Anyone who crosses the red line on the Taiwan question must pay the price."
The comments came after New Zealand's Foreign Ministry stated that the lawmakers had not traveled to Taiwan on behalf of the government. The ministry nevertheless reaffirmed Wellington's intention to maintain "trade, economic, cultural and indigenous exchanges" with Taiwan for the benefit of New Zealanders, according to reports.
The dispute highlights continuing tensions surrounding Taiwan, an issue Beijing considers a core national interest and one of the most sensitive aspects of its foreign relations.
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