Taiwan Given March Deadline to Relocate Embassy from Pretoria Amid Chinese Pressure

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The South African government has given Taiwan until the end of March to move its de facto embassy, the Taipei Liaison Office, out of Pretoria, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry revealed on Sunday. The ministry attributed the demand to increasing pressure from China, which regards Taiwan as its territory and opposes any form of international recognition for the island.

South Africa severed formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1997, opting instead to strengthen relations with China under the “one China principle.” This principle asserts that Taiwan is a part of China and should not be recognized as a separate state. In a letter reportedly sent in late January, South Africa’s government instructed Taiwan’s office to relocate and suggested that it be renamed as a trade office.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry expressed concern over the decision, saying it highlights China’s growing influence in South Africa. “This demand shows China’s suppression against us in South Africa is becoming more serious,” the ministry stated, though it noted that negotiations with South Africa are ongoing.

China’s Foreign Ministry praised South Africa for adhering to the one China principle. “South Africa is a good friend and partner of China,” the ministry said, adding that “Taiwan independence does not enjoy popular support and will fail.”Taiwan Given March Deadline to Relocate Embassy from Pretoria Amid Chinese Pressure

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China remains South Africa’s largest trading partner and is working to deepen cooperation, particularly in renewable energy. Analysts suggest that these economic ties have reinforced South Africa’s commitment to China’s diplomatic stance.

A spokesperson for South Africa’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the government’s request for the Taipei Liaison Office to relocate. “Our department is coordinating with the Taipei Liaison Office regarding administrative matters related to accurately representing its diplomatic classification in South Africa,” the spokesperson told Reuters.

Taiwan rejects China’s claims of sovereignty, maintaining that it is a self-governed democracy with the right to establish relationships with other nations. However, its diplomatic reach is limited. Of the 195 countries globally, only 12 maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. In Africa, Eswatini remains Taiwan’s sole ally, a small nation geographically surrounded by South Africa.

This development underscores the challenges Taiwan faces in maintaining its international presence amid China’s growing influence. Relocating and renaming the Taipei Liaison Office would represent a further blow to Taiwan’s visibility on the global stage.

For now, Taiwan continues to negotiate with South Africa while reiterating its commitment to pursuing international partnerships despite mounting diplomatic hurdles.

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