The SEF has urged caution for Taiwanese travelers in China due to recent detentions and a disappearance. Concerns were raised over the unpredictable legal environment in China. Additionally, the SEF called out Beijing for not complying with mutual assistance agreements while Taiwan condemned increased illegal fishing by Chinese vessels. Public protests were also held concerning child abuse cases.

The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) has issued a warning for Taiwanese citizens traveling in China, following recent incidents involving detainment and disappearance. SEF Secretary-General Luo Wen-chia expressed concerns about the lack of safety and the unpredictable nature of legal recourse in China. “China is not safe to visit, as something could happen to a traveler and it is not clear what could be done if something happens,” he stated.

Recent reports indicate that a Taiwanese entrepreneur and his son were arrested in Wuhan for unclear reasons, and another Taiwanese individual has gone missing in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province. According to Luo, a Chinese prisoner contacted the family of the missing traveler to inform them that their loved one is incarcerated. Additionally, a Taiwanese academic faced unexpected issues regarding housing arrangements at a university in Guangdong.

Luo criticized Beijing for failing to adhere to the Cross-Strait Joint Crime-Fighting and Judicial Mutual Assistance Agreement, which requires local law enforcement to notify Taiwanese authorities upon the arrest of Taiwanese citizens. He remarked, “Chinese authorities have no right to tell Taiwanese that their country is safe for travel or business if they continue to refuse to comply with the agreement.”

The SEF has highlighted that Taiwan has maintained an open and constructive dialogue with Beijing since President William Lai took office last year, emphasizing the need for improved cooperation. Amidst these warnings, Taiwan also condemned the increase in illegal fishing activities by Chinese vessels around the Pratas Islands in the South China Sea.

Additionally, a preliminary hearing was held at the Taipei District Court regarding two sisters indicted for the alleged abuse that led to the death of a 1-year-old boy, resulting in public outcry for harsher penalties. Concurrently, a Taiwanese woman sustained minor injuries after being struck by falling masonry in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, yet she was able to continue her tour afterward. Lastly, the Shanlan Express, a new tourism train service in Taitung County, is set to launch on April 19, contributing to the region’s centennial celebrations.

In summary, the SEF’s warning regarding travel to China highlights significant safety concerns for Taiwanese citizens, particularly in light of recent incidents involving detainment and disappearance. The lack of legal recourse and transparency in Chinese law enforcement further exacerbates these issues. Taiwanese authorities continue to advocate for better cross-strait relations based on mutual respect and compliance with agreements. This comes amid a backdrop of other significant local incidents, including public protests against child abuse and the launch of tourism initiatives.

Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com

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