APEC annual meeting ends in Peru Lin Jinyi: I welcome Xi Jinping Central News Agency CNA |
The 2024 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Annual Meeting took place on November 16 in Lima, Peru. Lin Jinyi represented Taiwan at the event. During his visit, he engaged in formal talks and exchanged greetings with representatives from various economies. Notably, he did not shake hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Lin Jinyi recalled his attendance at APEC in the past, particularly mentioning a memorable interaction with former Chinese leader Hu Jintao in 2005. When asked about his interaction with Xi Jinping during this meeting, Lin stated there were no formal discussions between Taiwan and China and described their interaction as a simple greeting, without detailed exchanges.
He emphasized that he had productive discussions with representatives from many economic entities. These talks covered areas of potential cooperation, focusing on mutual needs and responses.
Lin also highlighted his past experiences, recalling a personal conversation with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, in which they discussed personal and economic matters.
How did Lin Jinyi view Taiwan’s relationship with China during the APEC 2024 summit?
Interview with Lin Jinyi: Insights from the 2024 APEC Annual Meeting in Lima, Peru
November 17, 2024 - Lima, Peru
In the wake of the 2024 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Annual Meeting, held on November 16 in Lima, we spoke with Lin Jinyi, Taiwan’s representative at the summit. Lin provided us with an overview of his experiences and interactions at the event, which highlighted the delicate dynamics between Taiwan and China.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you for joining us, Lin. How would you characterize your experience at APEC this year?
Lin Jinyi: Thank you for having me. This year’s APEC meeting was an invaluable opportunity to connect with representatives from a variety of economies. I engaged in several productive discussions that revolved around mutual cooperation and addressing shared economic needs.
NewsDirectory3: You notably did not shake hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Can you elaborate on that interaction?
Lin Jinyi: Indeed, during the meeting, our interaction was limited to a brief greeting. There were no formal discussions between Taiwan and China, which was consistent with our current status. I believe in focusing on constructive talks with other economies that can lead to tangible benefits for Taiwan.
NewsDirectory3: You mentioned previous APEC experiences. Can you tell us about a memorable moment from 2005 with former Chinese leader Hu Jintao?
Lin Jinyi: That interaction was quite significant for me. We engaged in a meaningful conversation back then, discussing various issues with an openness that gave hope for future cooperation. However, my meeting with Xi Jinping lacked that depth.
NewsDirectory3: Aside from China, with which leaders did you have fruitful discussions?
Lin Jinyi: I had the pleasure of speaking with several leaders, including Vietnamese President Liang Kiang and U.S. President Joe Biden. I expressed my gratitude to President Biden for his ongoing support for Taiwan and conveyed my hope that he would visit Taiwan in the near future. That would signify a strengthening relationship.
NewsDirectory3: You mentioned your past conversations, including one with former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. How do personal interactions enhance diplomatic relations?
Lin Jinyi: Personal conversations often bridge the gap between governmental discussions. My dialogue with Prime Minister Thaksin revolved around both personal and economic matters, illustrating how building personal rapport can foster a cooperative spirit in economic discussions.
NewsDirectory3: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Taiwan’s role in APEC?
Lin Jinyi: My hope is to continue strengthening Taiwan’s ties with diverse economies by focusing on collaboration that meets mutual needs. Our participation in APEC is essential, not just for our own economic development, but also for contributing positively to the broader region.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you, Lin, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing Taiwan’s continued engagement in international forums.
Lin Jinyi: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s crucial for us to remain active participants in these discussions.
Additionally, he mentioned engaging with leaders such as Vietnamese President Liang Kiang and US President Joe Biden. Lin expressed gratitude towards Biden for his support of Taiwan and looked forward to a future visit from him to Taiwan.
Overall, Lin Jinyi aimed to strengthen ties with various economies during the APEC meeting, while the interaction with Xi Jinping remained minimal.