China welcomes Sao Tome and Principe’s split with Taiwan
BEIJING: China welcomed Sao Tome and Principe’s decision to sever ties with Taiwan, a move that comes after President- elect Donald Trump questioned longstanding US policy towards the self-ruled island.
Taiwan, stung by the loss of one of its few allies, accused Beijing of taking advantage of the small West African nation’s financial woes to impose its “one China” policy and said the move would destabilise already tense crossstrait relations.
Tensions between the mainland and Taiwan have risen since a highly unusual call from President Tsai Ing-wen to congratulate Trump, who has questioned Washington’s policy towards the island.
Beijing welcomed Sao Tome’s decision, but made no reference to establishing diplomatic relations with the African nation.
“We welcome Sao Tome and Principe back onto the correct path of the One China principle,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.
“Persisting in the One China principle is the direction of international popular sentiment and an irresistible trend,” it added.
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister David Lee strongly criticised Sao Tome’s move, saying it was seeking “astronomical” financial assistance, which Taipei refused.
“Ignoring nearly 20 years of friendship between the two countries by wavering between both sides of the strait in hope for a better deal, we express deep regret and condemn such a reckless and unfriendly decision and action by the Sao Tome government,” Lee said at a press conference.
“We take a practical approach to diplomacy, and we won’t engage in any money games.”
The small west African nation’s split comes almost two decades after it officially recognised Taiwan in 1997, when it severed relations with China.
Sao Tome’s decision leaves Taiwan with formal diplomatic ties to only 21 states, including just two in Africa, and the Vatican – its highest profile supporter. — AFP