Beijing Snubs 'Asia's Oscars' In Taiwan

Beijing has banned mainland movies and performers from participating in Taiwan's Golden Horse Awards, which are among the Asian film industry's most prestigious honours.

The one-sentence announcement on the microblog of a newspaper affiliated with government film regulator, the China Film Administration, gave no reason for the suspension, but it comes amid rising tensions between the sides over Taiwan's refusal to submit to the mainland's demand that it recognise itself as part of Chinese territory to eventually be brought under Beijing's rule.

In Taiwan, organisers of the Golden Horse Awards expressed regret about Beijing's decision, but said the show will be held on November 23 in Taipei as scheduled.

Even without the ban, mainland artists might have found it difficult to make it to the ceremony. Beijing recently issued a ban on solo travel to the island from September 1 as part of measures to inflict an economic cost on the island for its failure to obey.

There was controversy during last year's ceremony, which was marked by Beijing's displeasure over remarks in an acceptance speech by Taiwanese documentary director Fu Yue calling on the world to recognise Taiwan as an independent country, something only a handful of nations currently do.

Mainland participants refused to appear on stage, made pointed remarks about Beijing and Taipei being members of the same family and then declined to attend the banquet reception following the show.

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen expressed her support for Fu, saying in a Facebook post that the annual awards highlight the freedoms that set Taipei apart from Beijing.

Taiwan has accused Beijing of stepping up the pressure on President Tsai's government ahead of the island's elections next January.

The annual Golden Horse Awards, dubbed Asia's Oscars, showcase the best movies and performers in the region. Many performers from Hong Kong have attended the prestigious event in the past. (additional reporting by AP)

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