China bans New Zealand lawmakers over Taiwan trip


FE Team | Published: June 04, 2026 22:25:16


China bans New Zealand lawmakers over Taiwan trip


WELLINGTON, June 04 (AFP): China has slapped a travel ban on a group of New Zealand lawmakers after they recently visited Taiwan, Wellington said Thursday.
The four MPs hail from across the political spectrum and visited Taiwan as part of a cross-party delegation in May.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office confirmed the ban and said he was "surprised" by the move.
The top diplomat has asked New Zealand diplomats to raise the issue with Chinese officials in Beijing and Wellington.
China claims self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and opposes the self-governed island's participation in international organisations and exchanges with other countries.
Peters' office insisted on Thursday that the visit by the MPs was not inconsistent with New Zealand's "One China" policy, in which Wellington recognises Beijing's claim over Taiwan.

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