TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's representative to Japan, Frank Hsieh, shared his thoughts on Honduras cutting ties with Taiwan during a book launch event on Sunday (March 26).
Honduras had announced its decision to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan earlier that day, prompting Taiwan to reciprocate the action.
Taiwan has been experiencing a decline in diplomatic ties in recent years. Still, Hsieh quickly pointed out that this was not the fault of either the Democratic Progressive Party or the Kuomintang.
"At the beginning, we had over 120 diplomatic ties. However, it's unclear who is most responsible after regime changes," Hsieh remarked.
Taiwan has provided substantial financial aid to its diplomatic allies, which has proven effective.
"If we take the NT＄6,000 tax rebate, a total of NT＄140 billion to secure ties with Honduras, spend money to strengthen diplomatic ties, our ties can still last for a long time," Hsieh said.
However, this time Honduras has asked Taiwan to send NT＄60 billion. Hsieh said Taiwan is possible to supply the money. Nevertheless, he supports the central government's decision not to compete with China.
"If you are kind to them, it's hard to say if they will do the same. No good deed goes unpunished. Even Buddha can't help. We should stop trying," he advised.
Taiwan's diplomatic relations have been increasingly threatened by China's growing influence and "One China" policy.
Despite this, Taiwan continues to seek diplomatic ties with countries willing to cooperate with it while also being mindful of the potential risks of such alliances.
