Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed thanks on Thursday after organisers of the World Cup in Qatar removed a reference to China for Taiwanese visitors applying for an identification card that doubles as an entry visa.
There have been concerns about the Hayya card, which is used as both a Qatar-visa and later identification. It has only recently come to light that there was no mention of Taiwan on the website.
The Taiwanese government was subsequent listed as “Taiwan, Province of China”, terminology that equally angers the Taiwanese people.
The system was listing Taiwan by mistake on Wednesday evening.
Taiwan becomes the first to win such a victory. It’s rare for Taiwan, which is usually on the losing end of these types of skirmishes to have this type of success, which tends to show that their government and people are looking for a more aggressive stance against China.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said this was a “positive development,” and thanked the organizers for their quick response.
“We express our thanks and affirmation for this goodwill,” said Ou.
The World Cup organizers, FIFA, have yet to comment on the change.
Beijing gave a response when asked about the change, “Taiwan is a part of China,” adding that the one-China principle is a “basic norm” of international relations.
“We know that these relevant parties will respect the one-China principle and resolve this matter in accordance with the consistent methods for international sporting competitions,” he said at a press briefing.
