Canada lawmakers plan Taiwan trip amid rising China tensions
- The move could further worsen ties between Beijing and the West, after US House Speaker Pelosi’s visit to the island earlier this month drew a furious response
- MP and trade panel head Judy Sgro says the intent of the trip is not to cause disruption, but to look for opportunities for Canada
A delegation of Canadian lawmakers plans to visit Taiwan in October to seek economic opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region, Liberal Member of Parliament Judy Sgro said on Wednesday, a move that could further stoke tensions between China and the West.
The relationship between China and the West has worsened since US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan earlier this month against Beijing’s wishes. China claims Taiwan as its territory and is against foreign politicians visiting the island. Democratically governed Taiwan rejects China’s claims.
In response to Pelosi’s visit, China restricted trade and launched massive military drills around Taiwan, as well as slapped sanctions on Pelosi.
Beijing also imposed sanctions on a Lithuanian minister who visited Taiwan days after Pelosi’s trip.
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Why mainland China is holding military drills in Taiwan Strait following US Speaker Pelosi’s trip
China said another trip by US lawmakers to the capital Taipei on Sunday was an infringement on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.