diplomatic ties with Taiwan 結果共32筆

Joseph Wu Jaushieh, with over six years as Taiwan’s foreign minister, is set to become the National Security Council’s secretary-general. Known for his ＂unconventional＂ approach and handling of crises like the China-US trade war and COVID-19, Wu significantly enhanced Taiwan-US relations and worked on expanding ties with Central and Eastern Europe. Despite losing eight diplomatic allies under China’s pressure, his extensive international experience is seen as a valuable asset in his new role.

U.S. Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel J. Kritenbrink highlights cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan, alongside allies Tuvalu, Palau, and the Marshall Islands, to counter China’s expansion. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee discusses U.S. strategies for the Pacific islands, focusing on American and Chinese influence in the region, with references to Taiwan’s diplomatic status and China’s economic incentives to influence Nauru. The U.S. warns Nauru and Taiwan’s allies against China’s unfulfilled promises, with efforts like the Taiwan International Solidarity Act to counter China’s manipulation of Taiwan’s international role.

Solomon Islands gears up for elections, reigniting discussions on diplomatic ties with Taiwan and China. Peter Kenilorea Jr. advocates for reevaluating the security agreement with China, proposing a ＂dual recognition＂ policy.

Honduras owes Taiwan approximately US＄440 million (NT＄13.8 billion) in debt, which has accumulated over several years and remains unpaid even after severing diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China. The decision to end over eight decades of relations with Taiwan and establish diplomatic ties with China was made on March 25, 2023. The current president of Honduras, Xiomara Castro, did not borrow any additional funds from Taiwan, with the last loan of US＄300 million being acquired by her predecessor, Juan Orlando Hernández, in 2019. These funds were primarily used for housing reconstruction, school facilities, and nutritional lunches. Honduras hoped that establishing diplomatic relations with Beijing would result in greater economic support and loans from the Chinese government. However, the country’s white shrimp exports were affected following the diplomatic break with Taiwan. As a result, Honduras has turned to China for similar tariff preferences.

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. revealed in a letter to U.S. senators that China had tried to convince Palau to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan in exchange for hotel bookings. The letter, made public by Cleo Paskal of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, detailed China’s proposal to fill Palau’s hotels and operate a call center at an annual cost of US$20 million. Whipps Jr. warned that without immediate approval for COFA aid, pro-China factions in Palau could threaten its diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.

Taiwan’s ally Guatemala is considering establishing formal trade ties with China, according to the country’s Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez. He proposed the creation of a ’trade representative office’ to assist Guatemalan products in finding a market in China. While many Central American countries have switched recognition to China, Guatemala remains one of the twelve countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Outgoing Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Kausea Natano, expressed confidence that the majority of newly elected parliament members will support diplomatic relations between Tuvalu and Taiwan. Despite failing to regain his position in the recent elections, Natano emphasized his continued support for the relationship between the two countries. He stated that both novice and seasoned politicians, as well as senior MPs, share this sentiment and will likely continue to support the ties with Taiwan. After the elections, the 16 newly-elected members of Parliament will engage in complex negotiations to form different factions, with the faction holding the most members ultimately forming the new government and electing a prime minister.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) will closely monitor developments in Tuvalu post-election, as most elected officials have established frequent interactions and friendly stances with Taiwan, ensuring solid diplomatic ties. MOFA condemns China’s attempt to influence the election by buying off local media in Tuvalu. The loss of Tuvalu’s pro-Taiwan Prime Minister has sparked speculation about a potential shift in foreign policy and diplomatic alliance with Beijing. However, MOFA notes that the majority of elected Tuvalu officials maintain good relations with Taiwan and support upholding the amicable relations between the two countries. MOFA urges the international community to pay attention and counter autocratic dictatorial countries that manipulate elections in democratic states. This development reflects the ongoing competition between China and Taiwan for diplomatic allegiances in the Pacific region, with countries sometimes switching allegiances for economic or political support.

Tuvalu’s Finance Minister Seve Paeniu has stated that the nation will review its diplomatic relationship with Taiwan following its recent election. Concerns have been raised regarding the bilateral relationship with Taiwan and the security and migration pact with Australia. This marks the first time a Tuvaluan official has suggested the possibility of abandoning its diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which have been in place since 1979, and switching allegiance to Beijing. The decision will depend on which partner country can support Tuvalu’s developmental priorities and expectations.

Taipei (TVBS News) reports that Taiwan’s diplomatic allies are gradually decreasing, as stated by a Chinese official media outlet. Nauru recently announced its decision to sever ties with the Republic of China and Taiwan, bringing the number of diplomatic allies down to 12. This marks the tenth nation to break ties during President Tsai Ing-wen’s term. The Global Times report highlights the more restrained approach of Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim towards cross-strait policies, urging them to fully understand the reality and trend of the Taiwan Strait and completely abandon any path towards Taiwan independence. Lai, elected as a ＂double minority,＂ faces the challenge that 60 percent of the Taiwanese population does not recognize the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). In response to Taiwan’s elections, the U.S. clarified its stance by stating that they do not support Taiwan’s independence, aiming to dissuade Lai from becoming a disruptive force like former President Chen Shui-bian, which could affect the U.S.’s strategic plans.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has been closely cooperating with Tuvalu in various fields and will continue to strengthen such cooperation for mutual prosperity. MOFA’s remarks came after rumors that Tuvalu might establish diplomatic ties with China after its general election on Friday. Bikenibeu Paeniu, Tuvalu’s ambassador to Taiwan, suggested that Tuvalu might seek diplomatic recognition from Beijing after its Jan. 26 general election. Taiwan’s foreign ministry noted that numerous high-ranking officials from Tuvalu had congratulated Taiwan’s elected president and vice president after its democratic election and reiterated their commitment to preserving the friendship between the two countries. Some experts believe that Paeniu’s comments require further verification and cannot rule out the possibility that Tuvalu is using this as leverage to solicit support from Australia.

The Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) China Affairs Department has called on Beijing to realistically confront cross-strait relations. This plea comes in response to a recent statement by China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), which claimed that the Taiwan election results do not represent the majority’s views and reiterated that ＂Taiwan is China’s Taiwan.＂ Following Taiwan’s elections, Nauru, a Pacific island nation, severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The DPP criticized the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for exploiting Nauru’s financial difficulties and coaxing the country into establishing diplomatic relations with China. The DPP’s China Affairs Department reaffirmed that its chairman, Lai Ching-te, has consistently stated his commitment to maintaining the status quo under the constitutional system of the Republic of China (R.O.C.). Lai advocated for dialogue and cooperation with China based on parity and dignity. The DPP’s China Affairs Department condemned the CCP’s suppressive measures against Taiwan and urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to publicly pledge not to unilaterally alter the status quo across the Taiwan Strait using military force. Despite Lai Ching-te’s stance on dialogue and cooperation, Beijing has continued to disregard Taiwan.

The Australian government was informed by Nauru before the Republic of Nauru announced its decision to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan. However, the decision was not made after consulting with the Australian government. Australia respects Nauru’s sovereign decision. Taiwan accused China of enticing Nauru with financial incentives to sever ties, but China did not comment on the accusations. Nauru’s announcement came right after Taiwan’s presidential election, making it the 10th nation to break off relations during President Tsai Ing-wen’s tenure, leaving Taiwan with 12 diplomatic allies.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that the prime minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, has reaffirmed the strong bond between Taiwan and his country. Gonsalves congratulated Taiwan on its successful general election and expressed his support for the president-elect, Lai Ching-te. Gonsalves intended to lead a delegation to Taiwan for the president’s inauguration ceremony. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, expressed gratitude for Gonsalves’ well-wishes and extended a warm welcome for the upcoming inauguration celebrations. Gonsalves criticized Nauru for severing diplomatic ties with Taiwan and emphasized his country’s commitment to maintaining a faithful friendship with Taiwan. He pledged to strengthen the existing foundation of the cooperative relationship between Taiwan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Wu expressed gratitude for Gonsalves’ sincere bond and expressed the government’s eagerness to enhance cooperation for the well-being of the people of both countries.

Taiwan expresses strong regret and denounces the Republic of Nauru’s decision to sever diplomatic relations and establish ties with China as misguided and not beneficial for its people or regional stability. The Taiwanese Presidential Office highlights that Beijing’s diplomatic suppression is seen as retaliation against democratic values and a challenge to international stability. This move by Nauru reduces Taiwan’s diplomatic allies to twelve, marking the loss of its tenth ally since Tsai Ing-wen became president in 2016. Financial shortfalls resulting from the closure of Australia’s Nauru Regional Processing Center and other factors, such as Nauru’s request for economic aid and the closure of the Nauru branch of the Australian Bendigo Bank, have contributed to the strained Taiwan-Nauru relations.

Taiwan’s diplomatic ties with Nauru, its South Pacific ally, have been severed, reducing Taiwan’s diplomatic partners to 12. Taiwan and Nauru first established diplomatic relationships on May 4, 1980, with a brief interruption from 2002 to 2005 when Nauru switched allegiance to Beijing. Efforts by the then-Taiwanese Foreign Minister Mark Chen and Nauruan President Ludwig Scotty revived the ties. The current Nauruan president, David Adeang, received congratulations from the Taiwanese ambassador stationed in Nauru. Taiwan and Nauru have collaborated in various areas, including infrastructure construction, public health, clean energy, education, climate change, information technology, agriculture and fishing, and naval patrol. Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic allies include the Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, the Holy See, Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has expressed concern over comments made by Ko Wen-je, Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate, stating that they could potentially harm Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and lead to misunderstandings. MOFA spokesperson Liu Yung-chien emphasized that there is no conflict between solidifying relations with allied countries and developing substantial relationships with non-allied nations. The foreign ministry’s approach is to contribute to both areas simultaneously, without prioritizing based on alliance status. Liu highlighted the vital support received from allies over the years, which has helped Taiwan participate in international organizations and advance its causes. He expressed gratitude for the moral courage and vocal support shown by these allies, and stated that any possible misunderstanding sparked by Ko’s remarks is not something the people of Taiwan wish to see. In a podcast interview, Ko remarked that the number of diplomatic allies had been misperceived, suggesting that Taiwan would still fare well even if the number went down to zero. Ko emphasized the importance of substantial relationships, citing Taiwan’s positive relationships with Japan and the U.S., despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim emphasized the importance of the DPP holding a majority in the legislature to ensure continuous progress for Taiwan. Speaking at a women’s support group event in Tucheng District, Hsiao highlighted her past achievements, including signing the inaugural agreements of the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade. She also mentioned that talks to prevent double taxation with the U.S. are nearing completion, which will enhance bilateral trade relations. Hsiao stressed the DPP government’s commitment to establishing friendly and commercial ties with the international community, urging a broader perspective beyond the focus on the 1992 Consensus. She expressed confidence in the foreign policy direction under President Tsai Ing-wen’s administration and the potential for a Lai-Hsiao team to continue this diplomatic route. Hsiao emphasized the symbolic significance of drawing number two in the election draw, representing integrity and steady advancement, and portraying the elections as a testament to Taiwan’s democratic strength. She reiterated the importance of a legislative majority for the DPP to implement stable and progressive policies, reducing resource drain from cross-party conflicts.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih proposes a pro-US and China diplomatic stance, diverging from incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen’s approach. Hou criticizes Tsai’s foreign affairs and cross-strait policies, blaming the Tsai administration for Taiwan’s diplomatic isolation, failure to join regional economic bodies, and lack of communication with China. Hou emphasizes adhering to the Constitution of the Republic of China, affirming the nation’s sovereignty, and proposing a balanced stance between fostering solid ties with the United States and engaging with Mainland China. He also highlights the importance of Taiwan being prepared and realistic about its defense, suggesting that the island’s security should not rely solely on promises from the US but on its efforts and pragmatic relations with democratic allies. Political commentator Jaw Shau-kong fiercely criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for being pro-US and anti-China, deeming Tsai’s policies on cross-strait relations and international diplomacy a complete failure. Jaw points out that despite Taiwan’s willingness to import American pork, the support has yet to translate into the U.S. helping with Taiwan’s entry into international organizations.

Cynthia Wu, the newly appointed vice presidential candidate for Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), brings a global perspective and financial expertise to the party’s election campaign. As the granddaughter of Shin Kong Group founder Wu Ho-su, Wu is known for her efficient time management skills. Growing up in a family with diplomatic ties, including her father’s role as ambassador-at-large, Wu has had substantial international exposure, even meeting former U.S. President Bill Clinton. With her family’s involvement in promoting the Taiwan Relations Act and her uncle’s relationship with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Wu has a strong network. As a legislator, she worked closely with TPP leader Ko Wen-je on international diplomatic issues and proposed the inclusion of Taiwan in the ＂Santiago Principles＂ through the ＂Taiwan Sovereign Wealth Fund,＂ garnering interest from U.S. officials.

Germany is looking to strengthen its ties with Taiwan in various sectors, including academics and trade, according to Petra Sigmund, the German Director General for Asia and Pacific. Despite not having diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Germany is committed to maintaining and expanding connections with the country. While Germany adheres to the ＂One China Policy,＂ it does not preclude official interactions with Taiwan, which can extend up to a ministerial level. Germany’s top representatives, such as the president, chancellor, and foreign minister, do not establish contact with Taiwan, but the country intends to utilize other open contact spaces. Sigmund emphasized that Germany will strive to preserve these spaces, even if it disturbs China, as Taiwan holds significant importance to Germany.

Taiwan and the UK have signed a historic Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP), marking the first trade agreement of its kind between Taiwan and a European country. The agreement covers digital trade, investment, renewable energy, and net-zero carbon emissions. Future discussions may include trade facilitation, anti-corruption initiatives, and service industry management. Taiwan is the first country in the Indo-Pacific region to sign an ETP deal with the UK. The agreement is seen as a symbol of enhanced Taiwan-UK relations and could serve as a model for other nations. The deal is particularly significant considering the UK’s entrance into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which may have implications for Taiwan’s prospective membership.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has confirmed ongoing discussions for the establishment of a representative office in Estonia. While the move is significant for strengthening ties between the two nations, a shared consensus has not yet been reached. MOFA expressed gratitude towards the Estonian Government for engaging in continued negotiations and displaying an open approach. They emphasized the shared values of freedom and democracy that unite Taiwan and Estonia. Estonia’s government has reportedly agreed to allow Taiwan to establish an economic or cultural representative office in Tallinn under the name ’Taipei.’ MOFA stated that they will respond to foreign media reports of Taiwan’s Foreign Minister visiting Estonia at an appropriate time. The ministry highlighted the stable development of the bilateral relationship, citing the Estonian health minister’s support for Taiwan at this year’s World Health Assembly. Estonia is seen as a valued partner with common principles, highlighting the potential for deepening ties in future diplomatic endeavors.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an visits Seoul for the World Cities Summit Mayors Forum 2023, focusing on city diplomacy and youth development. He meets with Mayor Oh Se-hoon and signs a significant MOU, bolstering ties between the two cities. Stay updated with this diplomatic event.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issues a strong rebuke to Elon Musk’s recent comments suggesting Taiwan is part of China. Experts speculate on the motives behind Musk’s statements, pointing to his business ties with China. Get the latest updates on this diplomatic dispute.