Africa-Press – Eswatini. In a significant diplomatic setback for Taiwan, the East Asian nation has suffered a major blow as another one of its allies has switched allegiance from Taipei to Beijing.
The Pacific Island nation of Nauru, which was one of the country’s 13 remaining diplomatic allies in the world, announced its decision to sever ties with Taiwan and established diplomatic relations with China yesterday.
The move comes just days after Taiwan’s presidential election, where President-elect Lai Ching-te secured victory.
Nauru’s sudden decision to switch allegiance marked a blow to Taiwan’s efforts to retain its diplomatic allies, with the island now left with only 12 allies, primarily nations in the Pacific and Latin America, the Vatican and Eswatini.
The timing of Nauru’s move, immediately following Taiwan’s presidential election, has raised suspicions of Chinese interference.
The Chinese Communist Party considers Taiwan its own territory, viewing any support for the island as a challenge to its sovereignty.
Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang accused China of offering economic assistance to Nauru’s politicians, reported the CNN.
This development follows a pattern of China intensifying diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, resulting in the loss of 10 allies during the Democratic Progressive Party’s eight years in power.
The Nauru government, according to the CNN, justified its decision by stating that aligning with China was in the “best interests” of the country and its people.
This marks the second time Nauru has severed ties with Taiwan, having previously done so in 2002, with a resumption in 2005.
As Taiwan grapples with a shrinking pool of allies, Taiwan’s relationship with Eswatini becomes crucial as Eswatini remains the only African ally, playing a crucial role in advocating for Taiwan on the international stage as Beijing persists in its campaign to diminish Taiwan’s global standing.
In an interview last week, Taiwan ambassador to Eswatini Jeremy Liang issued a warning, cautioning against China’s intentions.
Liang urged caution regarding individuals and political parties cosying up to China’s charm offensive, expressing concerns about potential unrests if precautions are not taken.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
