China on Monday stated it has serious concerns over Taiwan's participation in the annual Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Palau, warning of 'consequences' after the island's authorities were present at the event's opening ceremony.
The statement comes as Beijing intensifies efforts to curb Taiwan's international influence, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes any form of official contact between Taiwan and other countries or international organizations.
Taiwan, a self-governing democratic island, sent representatives to attend the forum's opening ceremony on Monday, a move that immediately drew a reaction from Beijing. The Pacific Islands Forum is a key regional cooperation mechanism bringing together many Pacific island nations.
No official statement has yet been issued by the Pacific Islands Forum on this matter. Previously, China has repeatedly warned Pacific nations about maintaining ties with Taiwan while promoting economic and security cooperation to bolster its influence in the region.
