Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu said Sept. 7 that China is expanding its influence globally and called on members of the democratic world to stand in unity to prevent Beijing’s authoritarian expansion.
The minister made the remarks during an exclusive interview with CBC/Radio-Canada’s Philippe Leblanc in Taipei City. The program was broadcast Sept. 14 by the Ottawa-based media outlet.
According to Wu, maintaining the cross-strait status quo is key to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and serves the best interests of all parties. China’s “one country, two systems” proposal is not acceptable to Taiwan’s 23 million people, Wu said, adding that Beijing’s ambition is not limited to the country but extends to the South and East China Seas, as well as Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean.
Rock-solid support from the international community is crucial to deterring China from using force to invade Taiwan, Wu said, citing several visits to Taiwan made by democratic leaders following Beijing’s military provocations in early August.
Foreign delegations from like-minded partners such as Canada are more than welcome to visit the country, Wu said, adding that he is looking forward to deepening bilateral exchanges across the board between the two sides’ ministries, agencies, legislatures and think tanks.
Taiwan and Canada share the universal values of freedom, democracy and respect for human rights, Wu said. The government is committed to working with the North American country to boost economic and trade cooperation while strengthening the two sides’ partnership, he added.
Wu also took the opportunity to thank the Canadian government for supporting Taiwan’s meaningful inclusion in international organizations like the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization, which is set to stage its triennial general assembly Sept. 27 to Oct. 7 in Montreal.
In addition, Wu urged Canada to support the country’s bid to participate in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, adding that Taiwan’s engagement will help promote multilateral economic and trade exchanges in the region. (YCH-E)
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