Why Nauru’s China Switch Matters to Australia
The Diplomat“Never ask someone to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself” – it’s a decent rule to live by. Although most countries play the game of only holding unofficial relations with Taiwan to keep China placated, there has been an unacknowledged desire from countries like the United States and Australia for those remaining countries who recognize Taiwan to continue to do so – although it is something Washington and Canberra wouldn't themselves do. Only 12 states continue to recognize Taiwan, officially holding diplomatic relations with the Republic of China instead of the People’s Republic of China. While countries like Australia made the shift to recognizing Beijing in the 1970s, they’ve always seen a strategic importance in smaller countries of the Pacific continuing to hold official diplomatic relations with Taiwan. This has roots in the nuances of Australia’s One China policy – which acknowledges that the PRC believes that Taiwan is part of its territory, but doesn’t necessarily agree on that detail.
History of this topic
With an Eye on China, Australia Strikes a Deal With Nauru
New York TimesNauru gives Australia a veto right over a range of pacts with other nations including China
Associated Press
Nauru agrees to give Australia veto rights over pacts with third nations including China
CNN
Beijing has picked off Taiwan’s remaining allies. Taiwan is fighting back.
Live Mint
Australian Public Diplomacy and a National Rugby League Team in Papua New Guinea
The Diplomat
Pacific Islands Forum Removes Taiwan References From Communique After China’s Complaints, Taipei Slams ‘Rude Intervention’
News 18Australia and Tuvalu strike new security deal that eases the tiny nation’s sovereignty concerns
Associated PressTuvalu’s new government commits to continued diplomatic ties with Taiwan instead of Beijing
Associated Press
Nauru’s Geopolitical Clout
The Diplomat
After Nauru, Taiwan ally Guatemala mulls switching sides, likely to initiate commercial ties with China
India TV News
China formally restores diplomatic relations with Nauru after Pacific island nation cut Taiwan ties
The HinduChina formally restores diplomatic relations with Nauru after Pacific island nation cut Taiwan ties
Associated Press
Nauru seals diplomatic ties with China after dumping Taiwan
Al Jazeera
China restores diplomatic relations with Nauru after latter severs ties with Taiwan
India TV News
US only dirties its hands with its smears: China Daily editorial
China Daily
Taiwan loses first ally post-election as Republic of Nauru goes over to China
The HinduNauru switches diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China
Associated Press
China welcomes Nauru breaking 'diplomatic ties' with Taiwan
China DailyCloser security ties flagged with Vanuatu as Australia wrestles with China's Pacific rise
ABC)
Australia urges South Pacific nations to shun Chinese attempts to extend its security deals
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