Recently, remarks of Taiwanese Labour Minister, Hsu Ming-chun sparked controversies over her racist comments on recruitment of Indian migrant workers.
Apology Issued by Minister Amidst Racism Accusations
She has issued an apology for her remarks that she made during her television appearance after the MOU signed between two countries on February 16 to enhance the bilateral exchanges as well as addressing labour shortages. Her remarks sparked controversy when she suggested that Indian workers from North-Eastern states should be prioritized due to perceived similarities in skin colour and dietary habits. She also mentioned and added the proficiency of Christians from that region in various industries.
The labour minister’s comment faced flak from the Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chen Kuan-ting, who emphasized that recruitment should not be based on race or skin color.
Taiwan Affirms International Engagement Amid Controversy
Clarifying that her comments were inaccurate and also not reflective of discriminatory intent, an apology was issued from Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for the inappropriate remarks and pledged to review their recruitment policies to ensure fairness and non-discrimination.
MOFA, in a separate statement, said that it commits to treat all recruited workers fairly regardless of ethnicity. Emphasizing the respect, the nation has for diversity as well as friendship with India, government expressed regret for the inappropriate remarks by the minister.
MOFA seeked support from the Taiwanese people for its international engagement efforts to further the cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
On the parallel lines, China’s stance on Taiwan under ‘One China’ policy has remain unchanged and it still views Taiwan as a part of its territory.
China has reiterated its commitment to national reunification and readiness to use force if Taiwan moves towards independence.
