China on Thursday protested to India over PM Narendra Modi’s social media statement that he looked forward to having closer ties with Taiwan, insisting that New Delhi should resist Taiwan authorities’ “political calculations.” China views Taiwan as a rebel province that must be reunified with the mainland, even by force.

Modi’s remarks came in response to a congratulatory message from Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on his election victory. Lai, elected as Taiwan’s President last month, in a message posted on X said: “My sincere congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on his election victory.”