New Zealand seeks explanation from China over alleged ban on MPs visiting Taiwan

The New Zealand government has formally sought an explanation from China concerning reports that Beijing has imposed a one-year entry ban on four New Zealand Members of Parliament. This alleged measure, which has not been publicly confirmed by China, marks a significant and unprecedented development in the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, has instructed officials in Wellington and Beijing to convey the government's "concern" to Chinese authorities and demand clarity on the decision. According to a spokesperson for Peters, cited by Radio New Zealand, visits by New Zealand parliamentarians to Taiwan are "not incompatible" with New Zealand's long-standing "one China" policy, which officially recognizes Beijing as the sole legitimate government of China since 1972.

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In the context of that long history, the minister was surprised to learn that China has decided, for the first time, to impose travel restrictions on New Zealand MPs as a result of a trip to Taiwan.

"In the context of that long history, the minister was surprised to learn that China has decided, for the first time, to impose travel restrictions on New Zealand MPs as a result of a trip to Taiwan," the spokesperson stated. The lawmakers reportedly affected by the ban are Laura McClure, David Wilson, Maureen Pugh, and Duncan Webb, who represent various parties within the governing coalition and the opposition Labour Party.

Parliament Speaker Gerry Brownlee described the alleged ban as "surprising" and "disappointing." He emphasized that Members of Parliament act independently of the government and have the freedom to decide their international travel arrangements. Meanwhile, Webb confirmed to RNZ that the Chinese Embassy had previously issued warnings about potential consequences prior to the trip. He defended the visit as part of his parliamentary duties aimed at strengthening institutional ties and gaining firsthand understanding of Taiwan's situation. Despite China's claim over Taiwan, Wellington and Taipei have maintained economic and cultural exchanges over the past decades.

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The measure is surprising and disappointing.