Taiwan's National Palace Museum Talks Amid Century Celebration Snub

Taiwan's National Palace Museum, renowned for its imperial Chinese treasures, will not collaborate with China's counterpart for its 100th anniversary due to heightened military threats from Beijing. The director, Hsiao Tsung-huang, confirmed this while mentioning Taipei's reluctance to initiate any diplomatic discussions amid rising tensions.

Originally re-established in 1965, after fleeing China post-civil war defeat to Mao Zedong's communists, this iconic museum serves as a cultural beacon. Its exquisite collection descended from China's last dynasty, and its expansion in Chiayi County ensures broader public access to these rich artefacts.

In lieu of joint exhibitions with Beijing, the museum plans to display select treasures in Prague and Paris. This includes the rarely-traveled Qing dynasty Jadeite Cabbage, set to feature in the Czech Republic. Furthermore, Taiwan prepares to host a French art exhibition from New York's Metropolitan Museum, cementing its role on the global cultural stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)