Taiwan president’s greeting to Modi irks China; US calls it ‘normal’

Lai, elected as Taiwan’s President last month, conveyed his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his election victory in a message posted on X. Lai stated, “My sincere congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his election victory. We look forward to enhancing the fast-growing #Taiwan-#India partnership, expanding our collaboration on trade, technology, and other sectors to contribute to peace and prosperity in the #IndoPacific.”

In his reply, also posted on X, Modi said, “Thank you @ChingteLai for your warm message. I look forward to closer ties as we work towards mutually beneficial economic and technological partnerships.”

China views Taiwan as a rebel province that must be reunified with the mainland, even by force. Addressing a media briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated China’s stance, stating, “China opposes all forms of official interactions between the Taiwan authorities and countries having diplomatic relations with China. There is but one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People’s Republic of China.”