China expects Singaporean prudence with Taiwan

BEIJING - China urged Singapore on Thursday to abide by the One-China principle and prudently and appropriately handle economic relations with Taiwan.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks when responding to a question about a free trade deal signed between Singapore and Taiwan on Thursday.

"Our stance on Taiwan's external exchange is clear and consistent. We do not have objections to foreign countries' non-governmental trade and cultural exchanges but do oppose any official ties," Hong said.

On Taiwan's participation in international events, the mainland and Taiwan can seek a reasonable solution through consultations under the precondition that this participation do not cause "One China, One Taiwan" or "two Chinas", Hong said.

The agreement is Taiwan's first with a Southeast Asian country. Taiwan has been pursuing bilateral trade deals to prepare for joining proposed multinational free trade blocs including the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, according to media reports.