TPP Seeks Clarification Following Chinese Denial of Entry to Party Member
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Loading... - Alex Pinyin
- 10 May 2023
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The Taiwan People's Party (TPP), a centrist political party, has demanded an explanation from the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China after one of its lawmakers was denied entry into China for a religious event on Tuesday.
Lai Hsiang-ling, a legislator from the TPP, expressed that upon arriving at Xiamen Airport, she was informed at the immigration checkpoint that her Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents had been declared "invalid." Consequently, she was refused entry into the country. Lai had intended to participate in a cross-strait Daoist pilgrimage taking place in Fujian Province.
Lai stated that no clear reason was provided for this decision. In response to the incident, TPP Chairman and potential presidential candidate, Ko Wen-je, emphasized the need for the TAO to clarify the matter.
He highlighted that such exchanges between the two regions should be conducted on the principles of equality and dignity, which appeared to have been violated in this instance. Ko mentioned that the party would wait for an explanation from the TAO before deciding on the appropriate course of action.
This incident holds significance as the TPP, which currently holds five out of 113 seats in the Legislature, is known for advocating a moderate and pragmatic approach towards cross-strait issues.
During Ko Wen-je's tenure as the mayor of Taipei from 2014 to 2022, he struck a balance between occasional criticisms of China and a commitment to cross-strait dialogue. Despite facing objections from some members of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, Ko continued to foster the annual Shanghai-Taipei City Forum, displaying his dedication to maintaining communication between the two regions.
