Taiwan Apologizes for Labor Minister’s Controversial Comments on Indian Workers

Taiwan’s Labor Minister, Hsu Ming-chun, issued an apology for her controversial comments regarding the recruitment of Indian migrant workers. After signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with India on February 16 to enhance people-to-people exchanges, Taiwan planned to recruit Indian workers to address labor shortages.

Hsu’s remarks on a talk show stirred criticism, as she suggested recruiting workers from the North-Eastern states of India due to their “skin color and dietary habits” being closer to Taiwan’s. The comments were deemed discriminatory, and Hsu faced condemnation from various quarters, including ruling Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chen Kuan-ting.

The Labor Minister apologized during a legislative hearing, acknowledging the misunderstandings caused by her “inaccurate” comments. Taiwan’s Labor Ministry also expressed regret for Hsu’s choice of words, emphasizing that labor policies are crafted with equality in mind.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issued an apology for “not entirely appropriate” narratives from government agencies, acknowledging criticism domestically and internationally. Taiwan highlighted the MOU’s reciprocal nature, welcoming Indian workers regardless of ethnic background and ensuring fair treatment and legal protection.

Taiwan aims to foster cultural exchanges with India and elevate cooperation, while also seeking the support of its people in engaging with the world. The controversy comes amid tensions with China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory under the ‘One China’ policy, emphasizing the diplomatic importance of Taiwan’s international relations.

China has consistently asserted its goal of national reunification with Taiwan and hasn’t ruled out the use of force if Taiwan pursues independence, heightening the geopolitical context of Taiwan’s international engagements.