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Taiwan accuses China of being behind Pakistan's airspace ban on its airlines, which Islamabad reversed within 24 hours

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 October 2026.

A Chinese coast guard ship near Taiwan-controlled territory, as Beijing insists the Liaoning carrier's movements are routine training not directed at any specific country.
A Chinese coast guard ship near Taiwan-controlled territory, as Beijing insists the Liaoning carrier's movements are routine training not directed at any specific country.
Joseph Wu, secretary-general of Taiwan's National Security Council, warned that China's 53-vessel deployment poses a simultaneous threat to Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines.
Joseph Wu, secretary-general of Taiwan's National Security Council, warned that China's 53-vessel deployment poses a simultaneous threat to Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg on Wednesday that "only mainland China is allowed" to fly over Pakistan, making it the first country ever to bar Taiwanese carriers explicitly over the One China policy. Taiwan's deputy foreign minister Chen Ming-chi said the ban "sends a very dangerous message around the world" and that Taipei was certain Beijing was behind the pressure, though he offered no direct evidence.

Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority quietly reversed the ban within hours, granting China Airlines and EVA Air overflight rights through 27 March 2027.

Taiwan's Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee condemned Islamabad for "compromising flight safety, disregarding international rules and weaponising airspace" in a formal statement.

India's foreign ministry hinted direct Taiwan flights could now be possible, with a spokesperson saying "if there are direct flights, they will fly."

Morefreepresskashmir.newsTaiwan alleges Chinese pressure after Pakistan restricts airline accessYahoo News UKPakistan overturns ban on Taiwanese airlines in dramatic U-turn after less than 24 hoursfocustaiwan.twTaiwan 'deeply regrets' Pakistan's airspace ban on Taiwanese airlinesjapantimes.co.jpTaiwan says Pakistan briefly closed airspace to Taiwanese flightsThePrintPakistan blocks then unblocks Taiwan carriers in airspace drama
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