Fact Check: Taiwan Demands an Apology from China for Threatening Hsiao's Safety
What We Know
Recently, reports have emerged regarding an alleged plot by Chinese diplomats to intimidate Taiwan's Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim during her visit to Prague in March 2024. According to Czech intelligence, Chinese officials planned to stage a car collision involving Hsiao's vehicle, which was under police escort at the time. This incident was characterized as part of a broader intimidation strategy against Hsiao, who has been vocal about Taiwan's interests on the international stage (The Guardian, Reuters).
Following these revelations, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council condemned the actions of the Chinese diplomats, stating that they "seriously threatened the personal safety of Vice President Hsiao and her entourage." The Council has publicly demanded an explanation and an apology from China for these actions (Reuters, Mint).
Analysis
The claim that Taiwan has demanded an apology from China is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The details provided by Czech intelligence indicate a serious breach of diplomatic norms, as the actions were reportedly orchestrated by individuals holding diplomatic positions at the Chinese embassy in Prague (The Guardian). This adds a layer of gravity to the situation, as it not only threatens Hsiao's safety but also violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The reliability of the sources reporting on this incident is high. The Guardian and Reuters are well-established news organizations known for their rigorous journalistic standards. They have both reported on the same events, corroborating the details of the alleged plot and Taiwan's response (The Guardian, Reuters). Additionally, the statements from Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council provide an official governmental perspective, further validating the claim.
On the other hand, the Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that their diplomats comply with local laws and accusing the Czech government of interfering in China's internal affairs. This counter-narrative, while important, does not negate the initial claims made by Taiwanese officials and Czech intelligence, which are based on reported actions rather than mere accusations (Mint).
Conclusion
The claim that Taiwan has demanded an apology from China for threatening Vice President Hsiao's safety is True. The evidence from credible news sources and official statements from Taiwan's government supports this assertion. The serious nature of the alleged plot and the subsequent demand for accountability from Taiwan's authorities highlight the escalating tensions between Taiwan and China.
Sources
- Czechs say China followed, planned intimidation of Taiwan vice president
- 대만 소개
- China 'planned car collision' during Taiwan vice president's visit
- 대만관광청 공식 홈페이지
- 대만명소
- China says it will tighten 'noose' around Taiwan if separatism escalates
- 대만 여행지원금 안내
- China allegedly planned car collision targeting Taiwan vice president in Prague
