New Zealand’s foreign minister expressed surprise at China’s one-year travel ban on four New Zealand lawmakers following their visit to Taiwan. This marks the first time such a restriction has been imposed on them.
Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao of Taiwan posed for a group photo with New Zealand lawmakers Maureen Pugh, Duncan Webb, Laura McClure, and David Wilson during their visit to Taipei in May. The lawmakers were part of a cross-party group established in 2023 to maintain relations between Taiwan and New Zealand.
A spokesperson for New Zealand’s minister of foreign affairs, Winston Peters, highlighted that lawmakers have visited Taiwan for years without any issues.
“In the context of that long history, the minister was surprised to learn that China has taken a decision to, for the first time, impose travel bans on New Zealand MPs as a result of travel to Taiwan,” the spokesperson stated.
The travel restriction affects travel to China, Hong Kong, and Macau. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned China’s actions, accusing Beijing of interference.
China views Taiwan as its territory and is New Zealand’s largest trading partner. Engaging with Taiwan’s leaders is seen by China as a violation of its sovereignty.
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