China has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Czech Republic to enhance bilateral relations and revive a longstanding friendship. This announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a conversation with his Czech counterpart, Petr Macinka, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV.
The Czech Republic, like most countries, officially recognizes Beijing over Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory. However, the Czech Republic has recently fostered closer ties with Taiwan, a leading semiconductor producer, resulting in increased investments from the island nation.
Wang Yi emphasized the importance of strengthening dialogue and cooperation, enhancing political trust, and expanding practical cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, and tourism. He urged the Czech government to adhere to the One-China principle and work towards restoring China-Czech relations to a healthy development trajectory.
Growing Czech-Taiwan Relations
China has been critical of the growing relationship between Prague and Taipei. Taiwan, a democratically-governed island, rejects China’s view that it has no right to state-to-state relations. Last week, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited Prague and participated in a forum, further solidifying the ties between the two regions.
In the coming week, Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil will lead a business delegation to Taiwan, where he is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te. This visit is likely to further strain China-Czech relations.
Previous Strains in Relations
The relationship between China and the Czech Republic has faced challenges in recent years. Last year, Czech President Petr Pavel met with the Dalai Lama in India, a move that China viewed unfavorably. Additionally, a group from the Czech parliament visited Dharamshala in December to meet with the Tibetan spiritual leader.
In March, China strongly opposed a draft resolution passed by the Czech Senate concerning the Dalai Lama’s succession, accusing it of grossly interfering with China’s internal affairs.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
