Beijing has expressed its desire to restore diplomatic relations with the Czech Republic and rebuild what it calls their historical friendship, according to statements made by Foreign Minister Wang Yi to his Czech counterpart Petr Macinka, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV on Wednesday.
While the Czech Republic officially recognizes Beijing rather than Taiwan, which China considers its territory, Prague has developed stronger connections with the island nation in recent years and has received increased investment from Taiwan.
According to CCTV, Wang emphasized that both nations should “strengthen dialogue and cooperation, enhance political mutual trust and gradually expand practical cooperation in areas such as economy, trade and tourism” to guide their relationship in the proper direction.
Wang characterized Taiwan as a domestic matter for China and expressed hope that the Czech government would “practice the One-China principle … and promote China-Czech relations back on a healthy development track.”
Beijing has expressed disapproval of connections between Prague and Taipei, maintaining that the democratically-governed island lacks authority for diplomatic relationships between nations, a position that Taipei’s government firmly disputes.
Last week, Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung traveled to Prague and participated in a forum there.
Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil plans to lead a business delegation to Taiwan next week, where he is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te.
Tensions also escalated last year when Czech President Petr Pavel met with the Dalai Lama in India during July. Additionally, a delegation from the Czech parliament visited Dharamshala in December and held meetings with the Tibetan spiritual leader.
In March, China expressed strong opposition to the Czech Senate’s approval of a draft resolution regarding the Dalai Lama’s succession, claiming it “grossly interfered” with domestic matters.
