Taiwan defends attendance at Pacific meeting amid China's 'threat'

KOROR, Palau (Kyodo) -- Taiwan has defended its participation in the annual Pacific Islands Forum being held in Palau this week, telling member states

International relationsChina's envoy to Pacific warned of 'consequences' if Taiwan is included in regional gatheringTaiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung speaks to reporters on the sidelines of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror, Palau, on Sept. 1. (Photo by Sophie Mak)SOPHIE MAKSeptember 1, 2026 19:59

Beijing-Taipei tensions a feature at meeting in Palau, with Australia and New Zealand saying the forum – not another country – will determine who attends China ⁠said it had serious concerns ⁠about Taiwan’s presence at ​the annual Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, warning of “consequences” after the democratically ruled i

China views Taiwan as its own territory, and China-Taiwan tensions have featured prominently at the annual Pacific Islands Forum, which is intended to demonstrate regional unity.

A Taiwan flag flutters in Keelung, Taiwan on Dec 30, 2025. (Photo: Reuters/Ann Wang) 01 Sep 2026 10:14AM SYDNEY: China said it had serious concerns about Taiwan's presence at the annual Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, warning of "consequences" after the democratically ruled island attended the group's opening ceremony

China warns of 'consequences' over Taiwan presence at Pacific leaders meeting  reuters.com

Annual gathering of Indo-Pacific military leaders comes at a tense time in Canada-U.S. political relations, and while Ottawa seeks to improve relationship with Beijing.

There are concerns tensions between China and Taiwan could explode into the open at this year's meeting, distracting from the key Pacific priorities.

PRAISE: ‘Taiwan is a reliable, like-minded and democratic partner that contributes significantly to prosperity ... across the Pacific,’ the US Department of State said By Su Yong-yao / Staff reporter, with CNA Add TT as Preferred Source The US backed Taiwan’s continued participation in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) a