New Zealand MPs banned from China for visiting Taiwan, refuse to apologize

2026/06/04 16:48 Instant News / Comprehensive Report

From May 4th to 8th, a "Cross-Party Taiwan Friendship Group" composed of four cross-party members of the New Zealand Parliament visited Taiwan and took a photo with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. (Provided by the Presidential Office)

A cross-party group of New Zealand parliamentary members formed a "Cross-Party Taiwan Friendship Group" and visited Taiwan last month. This move has drawn dissatisfaction from China, and the four visiting MPs were subsequently banned from entering China for one year. However, China claims that the ban can be postponed or canceled if an apology is issued. Nevertheless, one of the MPs responded strongly, stating that they will continue to act according to their values and are willing to pay the price if the consequence is being banned from entering China.

According to comprehensive foreign media reports, the Chinese Embassy has notified the New Zealand Parliament that MPs Maureen Pugh (National Party chief whip), Duncan Webb (Labour Party co-leader), Laura McClure (ACT Party), and David Wilson (NZ First) have all been placed on China's entry ban list. This is the first time New Zealand MPs have faced such sanctions.

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In response, the four banned MPs responded strongly. McClure stated that the apology request is simply an insult and she will not apologize. Webb also responded that as members of Parliament, New Zealand values the right to a democratic system and cooperation with foreign partners, and has an obligation to be responsible to its constituents. He also stated in his declaration, "I will continue to act according to our values, including respecting democratic systems, freedom of association, and the right to engage constructively with partners around the world. If the price for doing so is being banned from entering China for one year, I am willing to pay that price."

However, China is traditionally New Zealand's largest trading partner, and this move also highlights the diplomatic dilemma the two countries face.

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