'Handle prudently & avoid interference', China tells India after Taiwan opens consulate in Mumbai

China on Thursday called on India to manage Taiwan matters "prudently", emphasizing that New Delhi should avoid actions that could affect Sino-India relationship. The statement came after Taiwan opened a new consulate office in Mumbai on Wednesday, which adds to its existing offices in New Delhi and Chennai.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, addressed the issue during a routine press conference, stating that China opposes any form of official contact with Taiwan by countries that have diplomatic ties with Beijing.

The new office's opening occurred amid ongoing efforts by China and India to ease tensions on their Himalayan border, a longstanding point of conflict.

China considers Taiwan as part of its territory and recently conducted military exercises around the island. Meanwhile, Taiwan dismisses China's claims of sovereignty and the right to represent it internationally.

"China has lodged solemn representations with the Indian side," Mao Ning said. "The one-China principle is a serious political commitment made by the Indian side and the political foundation of Sino-Indian relations."

"China urges India to strictly abide by its commitments, handle Taiwan-related issues prudently and properly, and refrain from conducting any form of official exchanges with Taiwan," she added.