Richard Saunders, Taipei
TAIPEI, March 25 (Reuters) – Taiwan on Tuesday called on Denmark to correct its designation of Taiwanese residents’ nationality as “China,” warning the move could damage bilateral ties and lead to retaliatory measures.
Denmark in 2024 changed the nationality listed on residence permits from “Taiwan” to “China,” a decision Taiwan’s foreign ministry said contravenes EU foreign policy and democratic principles.
“Denmark should present a solution acceptable to Taiwan as soon as possible,” ministry spokesman Hsiao Kuang-wei told reporters, adding the issue could harm Denmark’s image and business reputation in Taiwan.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said last week Taipei was considering adjusting privileges for staff at Denmark’s representative office in Taiwan.
Denmark is the only EU country to list Taiwanese nationality as “China,” according to local media. Taiwanese residents have protested to Danish authorities since the change, but no corrections have been made.
Taiwan’s envoy to Denmark, Robin Cheng, said the practice was inconsistent between ministries and clearly at odds with EU policy, which allows cooperation with Taiwan despite a “one China” stance.
The dispute follows a similar row with South Korea, which recently listed Taiwan as “China (Taiwan)” in its e-arrival system, prompting Taipei to threaten reciprocal measures.
