China sought to reassure Taiwanese employees working in the mainland, stating that its recent punishments for 'separatists' do not apply to them if they abide by the law. Legal guidelines issued by Beijing on June 21 indicated potential severe penalties, including the death penalty or imprisonment, for 'Taiwan independence diehards.' This announcement raised concerns in Taiwan, leading to restrictions on tours to China and warnings against travel to the mainland.
The Taiwan Affairs Office of China clarified that the punishments are targeted at a 'very small number' of independence supporters and accused Taiwan of exaggerating fears of imprisonment or execution. The office emphasized that the measures were lawfully formulated and specifically aimed, ensuring that Taiwanese individuals, including employees in multinational companies, can live and work peacefully in the mainland as long as they comply with the law.
