China urges U.S. to avoid official contact with Taiwan

China has urged the United States to avoid any official interaction with Taiwan, warning that such contacts send the  “wrong signals” to supporters of Taiwan independence.

Beijing said it firmly opposes any form of official engagement between Taiwan and the United States.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Washington should refrain from official exchanges with Taiwan “under any pretext” and handle the issue with caution, in line with the One China principle and long-standing bilateral agreements.

The comments come after three U.S. departments - State, Commerce and Agriculture - issued joint letters stating that China has been contacting U.S. state governments and private companies in an effort to discourage engagement with Taiwan and misrepresent U.S. policy.

The letters, released by the de facto U.S. embassy in Taiwan, said Washington supports expanding links with the island and described Taiwan as a “vital partner” and a “democratic success story.”

They also accused China of mischaracterising U.S. policy, including claims that Washington has previously accepted Beijing’s position on Taiwan, which the U.S. rejects.

U.S. officials said state offices and businesses facing pressure from Chinese representatives should report such cases to the State Department.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry welcomed the U.S. position, saying it reflected growing cooperation despite increasing pressure from Beijing.

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