By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Taiwan has cited errors in visas issued for its officials as the reason for its absence at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) summit in Cameroon, following earlier concerns that it was listed as coming from China.
Visa Errors Cited
Taiwan’s foreign ministry highlighted multiple mistakes in the documents, including misspelled names and incorrectly listing nearly all delegates as female. The ministry said Cameroon’s handling of the matter showed carelessness and a lack of sincerity, posing a risk of obstruction or humiliation upon arrival.
Background on Taiwan and the WTO
Taiwan, which joined the WTO in 2002 as the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, has consistently participated in the organisation. This marks the first time in 25 years that Taiwan has not attended a WTO ministerial conference.
Previously, Taiwan complained that Cameroon had listed the island as “Taiwan, province of China” in pre-travel documentation. Although Cameroon proposed to exempt Taiwan from visa requirements as a remedial measure, the errors on the issued visas led Taiwan to withdraw from the summit.
China’s Response
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, criticised the island’s decision. Spokesperson Lin Jian accused Taiwan of using the WTO meeting to “engage in political manipulation” and pursue a “Taiwan independence” agenda.
Taiwan maintains its sovereignty and rejects Beijing’s authority to speak for or represent the island, stressing the importance of its participation in international organisations despite pressure from China.
