China bans New Zealand lawmakers over Taiwan trip

China has imposed a travel ban on four New Zealand lawmakers following their recent visit to Taiwan. The lawmakers, from across the political spectrum, participated in a cross-party delegation to the self-ruled island in May.

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New Zealand Members of Parliament are free to make their own individual decisions, independent of the government, about how they respond to invitations to travel overseas.

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed the ban, stating his office was "surprised" by the move. He has instructed New Zealand diplomats to address the matter with Chinese officials in both Beijing and Wellington. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and opposes its engagement in international organizations and exchanges with other nations.

Peters' office maintained that the MPs' visit was consistent with New Zealand's "One China" policy, which acknowledges Beijing's claim over Taiwan. The spokesperson emphasized that New Zealand Members of Parliament are free to make independent decisions regarding overseas travel invitations.

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New Zealand is sovereign, and members of parliament have the right to represent the communities and constituents that we do, and we have the right to travel freely around the globe.

While Wellington does not maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan, the foreign ministry stated that this does not preclude exchanges in trade, economy, culture, and indigenous affairs. One of the banned MPs, Laura McClure, criticized China's action as an attempt to intimidate New Zealand lawmakers, asserting the nation's sovereignty and the right of its parliamentarians to travel freely.

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That is part of living in a free democracy.

According to reports, the Chinese embassy in Wellington indicated that the ban could be reversed if the politicians issue an apology. McClure stated she would not apologize for traveling to Taiwan, questioning what grounds there would be for an apology.

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It’s not exactly clear what we would be apologising for, and if it is just for travelling to Taiwan, I personally will not be apologising.