The Government of Nauru has switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China.
In a statement yesterday, the government announced its allegiance to the “One-China Principle, which recognises the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal Government” representing the whole of China.
“This means that the Republic of Nauru will no longer recognise the Republic of China (Taiwan) as a separate country but rather as an inalienable part of China’s territory, and will sever “diplomatic relations” with Taiwan as of this day and no longer develop any official relations or official exchanges with Taiwan,” it said in a statement released yesterday.
This is the second time Nauru has severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The Pacific Island country first cut ties in 2002, followed by a resumption in 2005.
“This change is in no way intended to affect our existing warm relationships with other countries,” the statement notes.
“Our government remains focused on moving Nauru forward, and this policy change is a significant first step in moving forward with Nauru’s development.
President David Adeang is expected to deliver a statement on the change when parliament sits this week, as well as a national address on local television and radio.