Taipei: Labor Minister Hung Sun-han stated Tuesday that "equal participation and reciprocal dignity" would guide Taiwan's participation in an upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) ministerial meeting in China. Hung is set to attend the APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting in Nanjing on September 21, marking the first visit to China by a ministry head from the Lai Ching-te administration amid ongoing tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
According to Focus Taiwan, Hung emphasized APEC's importance as a multilateral economic forum where Taiwan is a formal member under the name "Chinese Taipei." He reiterated that "equal participation and reciprocal dignity" have consistently been the core principles of Taiwan's involvement in APEC.
Hung, who became labor minister in November 2024 after serving as a lawmaker for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, has previously spoken out on human rights and political issues related to Hong Kong and Tibet, sensitive topics for Beijing. When questioned about accepting a "Taiwan compatriot permit" from Chinese authorities, Hung did not provide a direct answer. This permit is issued by China to Taiwanese nationals, as Beijing does not recognize Taiwan's passport for travel to China.
He also avoided addressing concerns about potential difficulties in returning to Taiwan, asserting his participation would adhere to "established APEC practice" and "reciprocal dignity."
Mainland Affairs Council deputy head Liang Wen-chieh mentioned on September 3 that the risks linked to Hung's trip were "controllable," noting the successful participation of Taiwanese officials in APEC meetings in China earlier this year without incident.
Hung mentioned that a forthcoming minimum wage review is an important task awaiting him after the APEC meeting, explaining his decision not to attend the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai later in the month. Taiwan is sending 53 competitors to the event, which takes place from September 22-27.
At a ceremony on Tuesday, Lai Ching-te presented the national and delegation flags to Taiwan's WorldSkills team, describing the competition as the "Olympics of skills." He encouraged competitors to believe in themselves, enjoy the opportunity, and showcase Taiwan's craftsmanship globally. Lai did not comment on Hung's upcoming trip or related cross-Strait issues.
The WorldSkills Competition attracts skilled young workers worldwide to compete in areas such as aircraft maintenance, refrigeration, baking, and hairdressing. Taiwan placed fourth at the 2024 edition in Lyon, France, securing medals and Medallions for Excellence.