China has imposed a one-year travel ban on four New Zealand lawmakers who visited Taiwan in May, marking the first such action against New Zealand members of parliament over travel to the self-governed island.
The decision has drawn concern from Wellington, criticism from Taipei and renewed attention to Beijing’s efforts to limit foreign political engagement with Taiwan.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Chinese Embassy in Wellington said the lawmakers had disregarded Beijing’s “serious concerns, resolute opposition and repeated prior warnings” by proceeding with the visit.
The embassy said the delegation met high-level Taiwanese politicians, causing “serious adverse political impacts” and sending the “wrong signals” to Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party.
China described the visit as interference in its internal affairs and said those who cross its red line on Taiwan would face consequences.
The lawmakers affected are Laura McClure, David Wilson and Maureen Pugh from New Zealand’s ruling coalition, along with opposition Labour MP Duncan Webb.
Reports said the ban could be reduced or waived if the lawmakers apologize for the trip.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has sought to discourage countries and political figures from engaging with Taipei.
New Zealand maintains a One China policy and recognizes Beijing as the sole Chinese government, while also allowing regular exchanges with Taiwan.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said New Zealand lawmakers had visited Taiwan for decades without facing such measures.
A spokesperson said Peters was surprised by the decision and had instructed officials in Beijing and Wellington to raise concern with Chinese authorities and seek a better understanding of the departure from past practice.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the ban, saying Beijing had no right to interfere in meetings with international friends.
It said parliamentary diplomacy was a normal practice among democratic nations.
McClure described the ban as “a type of foreign interference” and said she would not apologize for visiting Taiwan.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also said Canberra was concerned and would raise the issue with China.
The dispute adds a new point of tension to largely stable relations between New Zealand and China, its biggest trading partner.
It also follows earlier Chinese criticism of New Zealand lawmakers’ contacts with Taiwanese officials and broader pressure on Taiwan’s international engagement.