Nauru has announced that it will no longer recognize Taiwan as an independent country. The Albanese Labor government has stated that it “respects” Nauru’s decision to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Minister for the Pacific Pat Conroy confirmed the government was aware of the announcement in a media interview. This policy change follows Nauru switching its diplomatic allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The announcement came just two days after Taiwan’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
Mr. Conroy emphasized that the decision to recognize the PRC was made by the sovereign government of Nauru and that the Australian government respects their decision. Nauru’s policy change was described as a significant first step in moving the country forward with its development.
Meanwhile, Taiwanese Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang described Nauru’s announcement as “very sudden” after the elections to “target Taiwan.” Taiwan learned the CCP had “used economic assistance to lure the country to switch diplomatic recognition,” despite the nation having received congratulations from Nauru officials after the Jan. 13 election. Mr. Tien said Nauru had asked for a large sum of financial help that was “well beyond” what Taiwan usually offered diplomatic partners.