Chinese Embassy Pressed University of Ottawa and Global Affairs Over Taiwan Event

Chinese Embassy Pressed University of Ottawa and Global Affairs Over Taiwan Event

• Context: The Chinese Embassy in Canada exerted pressure on both the University of Ottawa and Global Affairs Canada to cancel or alter a virtual event that featured Taiwan’s representative to Canada, Harry Tseng. The event was organized by the university’s Faculty of Law in May 2023 and was meant to discuss Canada-Taiwan relations.
• Embassy’s Actions: The Chinese Embassy contacted the university and Canadian officials, accusing the event of undermining China’s sovereignty and violating the One-China policy, which considers Taiwan as part of China. The embassy demanded that the event be canceled, or that Harry Tseng be disinvited.
• University’s Response: Despite the pressure, the University of Ottawa did not comply with the Chinese Embassy’s demands. The event proceeded as planned, and Tseng participated in the discussion on Canada’s growing ties with Taiwan and the importance of the Indo-Pacific region.
• Political Repercussions: The incident underscores the increasingly assertive stance that China is taking in global diplomatic affairs, particularly with regards to Taiwan. It also highlights ongoing tensions between China and Canada, as Canada continues to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with Taiwan, a move that irritates Beijing.
• Global Affairs Canada: The federal government’s foreign ministry, Global Affairs Canada, did not comply with the Chinese Embassy’s request and reaffirmed Canada’s longstanding One-China policy. However, they continue to engage with Taiwan in areas of mutual interest, such as trade and technology.

Source: The Globe and Mail