Taiwan's foreign ministry says that ties between Taiwan and Israel remain strong, despite a report that Israel is discouraging its diplomats from building closer relations with Taipei. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Joanne Ou said on Monday that although the two countries are not official allies, they still collaborate on a wide range of issues.
According to a report on Tuesday from Israel's state broadcaster, Israel's foreign ministry has warned its diplomats to avoid formal or public meetings with Taiwanese representatives. The report also says diplomats have been told not to attend events for Taiwan's National Day or invite Taiwanese representatives to celebrate Israel's Independence Day.
Spokesperson Ou says that the two countries continue to work together on issues like medical care, agriculture, trade and technology. On May 11, Taiwan and Israel also signed the Joint Declaration on Welfare and Social Work Cooperation, which is their 30th cooperation agreement.
Ou says that Taiwan and Israel are partners that share views on democracy, liberty, and human rights. She says the two countries will continue to promote peace and prosperity together throughout the world.