Taiwan apologises after minister’s racist comment cast shadow over labour deal with India

Even as New Delhi overlooks Beijing’s disapproval and subtly expands its relations with Taipei, a comment by the Taiwan’s labour minister on the recently concluded agreement for hiring workers from India has sparked a controversy.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Taiwan on Monday issued a statement, apologising for the remark.

Taiwan’s labour minister Hsu Ming-chun said that Taipei had plans to recruit migrant workers from the northeastern region of India, not only because “their skin colour and eating habits were similar to Taiwanese,” but also due to their beliefs in Christianity and their skills in manufacturing, construction, and agriculture”. Her comment drew flak from social media users who found it to have racial and communal overtones.

New Delhi also informally conveyed to Taipei its displeasure over the remark of the labour minister of Taiwan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Taiwan on Monday resorted to damage-control measures and issued a statement. “Recently, in discussions with relevant sectors in Taiwan’s society, certain government agencies have made remarks that were not entirely appropriate. This has led to criticism among Taiwan’s society, Indian friends, and other international stakeholders,” it stated, adding: “The government expresses sincere apologies over this situation. It will earnestly review its actions and make needed improvements going forward.”