Thai PM Defends One China Policy After Taiwan Protests
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- PM Anutin Charnvirakul dismissed Taiwan's criticism of Thailand's One China policy stance on Thursday, saying Bangkok's position would not affect economic ties with Taipei.
- The China-Thailand Joint Statement, issued during Anutin's July 16-20 official visit to China, recognized Beijing as the sole legal government representing China, described Taiwan as an inalienable part of China, and voiced support for China's "One Country, Two Systems" policy.
- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on July 21 "strongly protesting" what it called false narratives promoted by Beijing and expressing "disappointment and regret" that Thailand aligned with China in diminishing Taiwan's sovereign status.
- Taiwan reiterated that the Republic of China is a sovereign and independent country not subordinate to the PRC, and warned that continued cooperation with Beijing in suppressing Taiwan could undermine regional peace and stability.
- Anutin dismissed suggestions that Thailand was siding with Beijing against Taipei, saying "That is their position. We acknowledge it. Our policy is clear," and rejected claims that the stance would affect trade, investment or other cooperation.
- The PM also addressed social media speculation that Taiwan could review visa privileges for Thai visitors or take measures affecting Thai workers, reiterating that Thailand's position remained unchanged.
Why it matters: The exchange exposes how Southeast Asian states deepening ties with Beijing must navigate Taipei's sensitivity over sovereignty language, with Thailand publicly insisting the diplomatic friction will not affect economic cooperation even as Anutin felt compelled to defend the position point by point against speculation about visa and labor measures.
