China Dismisses Taiwan Safety Concerns About Hosting APEC

Intermediate | November 18, 2025

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China Rejects Taiwan’s Warnings Over APEC Security

China has dismissed concerns raised by Taiwan about safety and political tensions ahead of the 2026 APEC summit, which China will host. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council warned that rising military pressure and increased Chinese aircraft activity near Taiwan could affect the security of delegates. According to reporting from Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Nikkei Asia, China rejected the concerns as “groundless,” insisting it is fully capable of hosting a safe and successful event.

What Sparked Taiwan’s Concerns?

Taiwan’s concerns stem from increased Chinese military activity around the island throughout 2025. According to flight data cited by Reuters, Chinese military aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line more frequently than in previous years—an action Taiwan sees as destabilizing. Officials also pointed to China’s refusal to engage in regular communication channels and its continued efforts to pressure Taiwan internationally.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council emphasized that hosting APEC requires a predictable and safe environment, and that ongoing military intimidation raises legitimate questions about whether China can guarantee the safety of all participants.

China’s Response: “No Problem at All”

Beijing firmly dismissed Taiwan’s concerns and accused Taipei of “politicizing” the upcoming summit. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office told reporters that it has a long history of successfully hosting major international events—including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2022 Winter Games—and that security will not be an issue. Chinese officials told Al Jazeera that Taiwan was attempting to undermine China’s role as host by raising unnecessary tension.

APEC’s Role and Why It Matters

APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) brings together 21 member economies, including both China and Taiwan. Taiwan participates under the name “Chinese Taipei,” a compromise arrangement that avoids sovereignty disputes. Because APEC is a high-profile diplomatic forum, hosting responsibilities carry significant political weight.

In 2026, China will chair the summit, giving it control over the agenda, diplomatic messaging, and logistics. Analysts interviewed by Nikkei Asia and CNA Taiwan note that sensitive cross-strait relations could influence interactions between delegations.

What Happens Next?

Most experts expect the summit to move forward as scheduled despite political tensions. Analysts told Reuters that while cross-strait relations remain strained, China is highly motivated to deliver a stable and well-organized APEC event. Taiwan has stated that it will continue monitoring military activity in the region but still plans to participate under the existing framework.

Diplomats interviewed by Al Jazeera suggested that political tensions may shape behind-the-scenes discussions but are unlikely to derail the summit itself.

Vocabulary

Concern (noun) – a worry or issue needing attention.
Example: “Taiwan raised a concern about the summit’s safety.”
Dismiss (verb) – to reject or ignore something as unimportant.
Example: “China dismissed the safety concerns as unnecessary.”
Strained (adjective) – tense or difficult.
Example: “Cross-strait relations have been strained this year.”
Guarantee (verb) – to promise or ensure.
Example: “Officials said they could guarantee security at the event.”
Infrastructure (noun) – basic systems and structures needed for operation.
Example: “China said its infrastructure is ready for the summit.”
Politicize (verb) – to make something political.
Example: “China accused Taiwan of politicizing the summit.”
Delegate (noun) – a representative sent to a meeting or conference.
Example: “Many delegates will attend the APEC summit.”
Criticize (verb) – to express disapproval.
Example: “China criticized Taiwan for raising concerns.”
Participate (verb) – to take part in an activity or event.
Example: “Taiwan will participate under the name Chinese Taipei.”
Monitor (verb) – to watch or check regularly.
Example: “Taiwan will continue to monitor the situation.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

Why did Taiwan express concerns about China hosting APEC?
How did China respond to Taiwan’s comments?
What recent activities increased Taiwan’s worries?
Why does APEC participation sometimes cause political tension?
What do experts expect for the 2026 summit?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

How do political tensions affect international events?
Should large conferences be hosted only in politically stable areas?
How can countries maintain safety during high-profile meetings?
What challenges do Taiwan and China face in international cooperation?
How important is diplomacy during regional summits?

Related Idiom

“On thin ice” – in a risky or uncertain situation.
Example: “With rising military tension, the region feels like it’s on thin ice.”

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This article was inspired by:
Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific