China has defended its decision to impose entry restrictions on four New Zealand lawmakers after they visited Taiwan, while also rejecting accusations from intelligence agencies within the Five Eyes alliance that Chinese operatives are using online job platforms for espionage recruitment.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the lawmakers’ visit to Taiwan violated the one-China principle and interfered in what Beijing considers its internal affairs.
“Several individual New Zealand lawmakers visited China’s Taiwan region in disregard of the grave concern and firm opposition of the Chinese side,” Mao Ning said. According to the spokesperson, China imposed measures, including entry bans, in accordance with relevant Chinese laws.
Beijing reiterated that the one-China principle remains a core foundation of its foreign policy and international relations. Mao Ning emphasized that the principle is not only an international norm but also serves as a political cornerstone of relations between China and New Zealand.
The spokesperson urged the individuals involved to respect China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and warned that actions relating to Taiwan that cross what Beijing calls its “red line” would have consequences.
The move comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, while several Western lawmakers and governments continue to expand unofficial engagement with Taipei.
Addressing a separate issue, Mao Ning dismissed allegations made by intelligence agencies from the Five Eyes alliance — which includes the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand — regarding claims that Chinese intelligence agencies are recruiting individuals through online job platforms.
“The Five Eyes has long engaged in massive systemic espionage all over the world,” Mao Ning said, calling it ironic that such an organization would accuse China of posing a spy threat.
The Chinese government has repeatedly denied accusations of overseas espionage and cyber activities directed at foreign governments and institutions, arguing that such claims are politically motivated and aimed at containing China’s rise.
The comments reflect growing geopolitical tensions between China and Western nations over security, intelligence activities, and Taiwan-related issues, which continue to remain major flashpoints in international relations.
As diplomatic frictions deepen, analysts suggest that disputes over Taiwan and national security concerns are likely to remain key areas of contention between Beijing and members of the Five Eyes alliance.
Disclaimer:
Disclaimer: This article is based on official statements, publicly available information, and media reports. The views and claims mentioned in statements from government officials and spokespersons are presented for informational and journalistic purposes and do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication. Geopolitical developments remain fluid, and readers are encouraged to follow official sources for updates.
