Nauru’s parliament has approved a motion to restore full diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China (PRC), marking a significant shift in the Pacific island nation’s foreign policy. The decision, announced on January 16, underscores the growing international acknowledgment of the one-China principle.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed Nauru’s move, stating that there is only one China in the world, with Taiwan being an inalienable part of China’s territory. The government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, a position affirmed by Resolution 2758 of the UN General Assembly and widely recognized by the international community. The restoration of ties with Nauru reflects the global trend towards embracing the one-China principle.
The decision has drawn attention due to its timing, coming shortly after elections in Taiwan where Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) secured a significant victory. Commentators note that Nauru is the tenth diplomatic ally lost by the Taiwan authorities led by Tsai Ing-wen, reducing the number of Taiwan’s diplomatic partners to an all-time low of twelve.
The Kuomintang (KMT) party in Taiwan expressed concern over the island’s diminishing international ties, suggesting that the DPP’s policies are adversely affecting Taiwan’s foreign relations. The KMT urged the DPP to reconsider its stance on the Taiwan independence clause in its party platform. In response, Taiwan authorities criticized Nauru’s decision to sever diplomatic relations, attributing the move to Nauru’s demands for substantial economic assistance. The authorities announced the cessation of all bilateral cooperation programs with Nauru.
Nauru’s action highlights the shifting diplomatic landscape in the Pacific region, with more countries recognizing the People’s Republic of China. The reaffirmation of the one-China principle by countries like Nauru underscores its significance in international relations and the ongoing realignments in global diplomacy.
Reference(s):
Resumption of China-Nauru ties an affirmation of the one-China principle
cgtn.com
