ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi on Friday expressed support for China, saying the country would adhere to the “One-China principle,” with Taiwan regarded as part of Chinese territory.
The development comes after Beijing intensified military pressure with large-scale live-fire drills and simulated blockade exercises near the island, viewed as a show of force to deter foreign support for Taiwan’s independence. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and seeks eventual reunification, but Taiwan operates as a self-governing democracy that resists Beijing’s control.
Addressing a media query, Andrabi described Pakistan and China as “iron-clad” friends and “all-weather strategic cooperative partners.”
“We reiterate our consistent support for China on all matters of its core interests, including Taiwan,” he added. “We will continue to adhere to the One-China principle and regard Taiwan as an inalienable part of China.”
Beijing launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coast guard vessels earlier this week to encircle Taiwan. The show of force came after the United States approved an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan.
The United States has been committed for decades to ensuring Taiwan’s self-defense, while staying ambiguous on whether the US military would intervene in an invasion.
China’s latest exercises were the sixth major round of maneuvers since 2022, when a visit to Taiwan by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi enraged Beijing.
These developments have heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, raising concerns about regional stability and the risk of conflict.
