Taiwan VP Targeted in Alleged Chinese Plot

Czech intelligence claims Chinese operatives planned a staged car collision to harm Taiwan’s vice president, Hsiao Bi-khim, during her visit to Prague. The alleged plot, if executed, would have dramatically escalated tensions, highlighting Beijing’s increasingly assertive tactics against Taiwan.

The Prague Incident Uncovered

During Hsiao Bi-khim’s trip to the Czech Republic in March 2024, a Chinese diplomat trailed her motorcade. Intelligence officials later revealed this was part of a larger scheme. This plan, orchestrated from the Chinese embassy in Prague, involved a staged car accident.

Hsiao expressed her resolve in response. She posted, “The CCP’s unlawful activities will NOT intimidate me from voicing Taiwan’s interests in the international community.”

Details of the Alleged Plot

Czech military intelligence chief, Petr Bartovský, informed local media that the diplomat tailing Hsiao’s car was following orders. According to reports, the plan involved a collision with Hsiao’s vehicle, as stated by Jan Pejšek, a spokesperson.

“These activities, which flagrantly breach the obligations arising from the Vienna convention on diplomatic relations, were conducted, amongst others, by individuals holding diplomatic posts at the Chinese embassy in Prague,”

—Jan Pejšek, Spokesperson for the service

The Mainland Affairs Council of Taiwan condemned China’s actions, demanding an explanation and apology, calling the incident a serious threat. In 2023, there were approximately 34,000 reported traffic accidents in the Czech Republic (Czech Statistical Office).

China’s Response and Wider Implications

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, claimed that Chinese diplomats follow host country laws. He also criticized the Czech government for letting Hsiao visit, calling her a Taiwan independence separatist.

Beijing views Taiwan as a Chinese province. It strongly objects to international actions that support Taiwan’s elected government. The Czech foreign ministry summoned the Chinese ambassador but has not commented further.