Nauru Chooses China Over Taiwan, Severs Diplomatic Relations

Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, has ended its diplomatic relationship with Taiwan and has chosen to align with China instead. The decision comes shortly after Taiwan's recent presidential elections. Nauru's government announced that it will no longer consider Taiwan as a separate country, but rather as an integral part of China's territory. In recent years, China has been successful in persuading other countries to sever their diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Taiwan considers this move by Nauru as a retaliatory action by China against its democratic election. As a result, only 12 countries now maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, including Guatemala, Paraguay, and the Marshall Islands. The election in Taiwan was controversial as voters supported pro-sovereignty candidate William Lai, which angered Beijing. China has criticized Lai for promoting Taiwanese independence, which it considers a serious issue. Taiwan's deputy foreign minister confirmed that diplomatic ties with Nauru have been severed in order to safeguard Taiwan's sovereignty and dignity. The Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern about the timing of China's actions, viewing it as not only retaliation but also a challenge to the international order. The ministry accused China of exploiting Nauru's political instability to gain its support using financial aid. The minister emphasized that China's attempts to isolate Taiwan on the global stage will not be recognized by democratic countries. Despite this, Taiwan remains vigilant and prepared to counter further attempts from China to isolate it internationally. In response, China welcomed Nauru's decision, stating that it demonstrates the popularity and acceptance of the "One-China" principle. It is worth noting that Nauru had previously severed ties with Taiwan in 2002 but restored them in 2005.