Nauru ends diplomatic relations with Taiwan, leaving Taipei with just 12 official allies in the world. This was reported in a statement from the government of the small Pacific island-state announcing the official recognition of the People's Republic of China.
Nauru's decision was announced by President David Ranibok Adeang in a message to the nation posted on social media, just two days before Taiwan's presidential election that saw Democratic Progressive Party candidate William Lai win. Announcing the change with immediate effect, Nauru said it considered Taiwan an "inalienable part of China's territory."
Taiwan's Foreign Ministry confirmed in a statement the severing of relations with the Pacific island.
It is with deep regret that "we announce the termination of diplomatic relations with Nauru. This timing not only represents China's retaliation against our democratic elections, but also a direct challenge to the international order," the statement reads: Taipei, however, "remains indomitable and will continue to be a force for good."
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