Ankara: Taiwan has barred 62 active military personnel who currently hold a residence permit issued by the Chinese government from engaging in jobs related to collecting intelligence and handling confidential data, Defense Minister Wellington Koo announced on Wednesday. This decision was made to safeguard sensitive military operations and prevent potential security breaches.
According to Anadolu Agency, during a legislative hearing, Minister Koo revealed that these 62 service members possess a Chinese government-issued "Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents." Among them, two are serving voluntarily. While holding the residence permit is neither illegal nor disqualifying, these individuals will be restricted from roles involving newly acquired advanced weapons, accompanying high-ranking military officers, accessing operations and intelligence centers, or serving as chiefs of staff.
Koo highlighted the Defense Ministry's plans to recruit more personnel following several recent cases where former or active-duty service members were indicted on charges of espionage for China. The issue has gained attention after a recent incident involving a Navy member, surnamed Yang, who was discovered to have held Chinese citizenship for a decade.
Under Chinese law, citizens are required to renounce their citizenship upon naturalization by another country, a rule not applicable to Taiwan. Conversely, Taiwanese law does not recognize Chinese citizenship; individuals found with a Chinese passport or household registration may face revocation of their Taiwanese citizenship.
In a proactive measure to counteract perceived influence efforts by Beijing, Taiwan is also reviewing social media comments made by Chinese citizens as part of its entry approval process. In response, Beijing has launched an online portal to monitor activities related to 'Taiwan independence.'
China regards Taiwan as a "breakaway" province, while Taipei has maintained its stance of independence since 1949.
*Writing by Aamir Latif*