After a break with Taiwan: Nauru and China resume relations, farmers’ protests with trekking columns also in Lithuania

Following the break with Taiwan, the small Pacific island of Nauru and the People’s Republic of China have officially resumed diplomatic relations. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced this in Beijing on Wednesday.

Nauru thus recognizes that there is only one China and that Taiwan is part of the People’s Republic, the country said. Previously, Nauru was one of the few countries to officially recognize Taiwan.

After Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party won Taiwan’s presidential election on Jan. 13, the South Sea island of about 11,500 residents announced it would sever diplomatic ties with Taipei and instead recognize Beijing. Taiwanese politicians accused China of enticing the island to make the switch by promising economic aid.

China considers Taiwan part of its territory, even though Taipei has had a democratic government for decades. The Progressive Party stands for Taiwan’s independence, and even though it does not want to officially declare it, the party is a thorn in Beijing’s side.

After the break with Nauru, Taiwan is now recognized as a sovereign country by twelve states, including the Vatican. Nauru had already severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan in July 2002. However, in 2005, the island changed its mind again after China failed to keep its promises to support the country.

According to reports, the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu is also considering reconsidering relations with Taiwan, in a similar manner to Nauru, after next Saturday’s parliamentary elections. (saw/sda/dpa)