BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The division within the sub-regional Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) as to their diplomatic relations with China and Taiwan became even more glaring with some member states congratulating the President elect of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, and others re-affirming their adherence to the One China Policy.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu conducts a video call with St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (on screen) (MOFA photo)The OECS groups the independent countries of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and St. Kitts-Nevis.
While St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadine and St. Kitts-Nevis are among a handful of countries recognising Taiwan, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica and Grenada support Beijing’s position that the international community adhere to the One China Policy that includes the recognition of Taiwan as a province of China.
The OECS countries have sent differing messages on the election victory of Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in last Saturday’s elections.
Antigua and Barbuda said that from the time of independence in 1981 it has always supported the ‘One China policy’ and “has never shifted allegiance to the Peoples Republic of China.
“Following the recent elections held in Taiwan, Antigua and Barbuda reaffirms its long-standing support for and commitment to the “One China Policy” which is a universal consensus of the international community, that there is but one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.
“The outcome of the elections held in the Province of Taiwan should not alter the dynamic process and future direction of cross-strait relations,” St. John’s said.
It’s a similar message from Dominica that reaffirmed “its support and commitment for the “One China Policy”, even as it reiterated the need for “the peaceful reunification” of China and Taiwan.
In a statement in which it referred to Taiwan as “the province of Taiwan” Dominica said it has articulated the “One China Policy” since its establishment of diplomatic relations with China in 2004.
“Dominica’s decision is based on well-established international law, strongly affirmed by United Nations Resolution 2758 of October 1971. The People’s Republic of China is the only legitimate Government of China and hence, China’s membership in the United Nations.
“Therefore, it is widely accepted that the future of Taiwan remains a matter within the internal affairs of the People’s Republic of China,” Roseau said.
Grenada has not yet publicly commented on the electoral victory of the ruling party in Taiwan, but the island announced the resumption of diplomatic ties with China on January 20, 2005 after having initially done so in 1985. In the interim it flirted with Taipei .
On Tuesday, Tawain’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Jaushieh Joseph Wu, had a video conference call with Prim Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in which he lauded the two allies’ deep bond and vowed to continue deepening bilateral links.
Gonsalves had earlier congratulated Taiwan on its smooth presidential and legislative elections and President-elect Lai Ching-te on his victory. The prime minister then expressed his hope of leading a delegation to Taiwan for the inauguration ceremony in May.
As for Nauru’s recent announcement on terminating diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Prime Minister Gonsalves condemned the move and emphasized that t.Vincent and the Grenadines is one of Taiwan’s most faithful partners and will staunchly safeguard official ties. He added that the country looks forward to collaborating with Taiwan’s new administration.
In response, Wu thanked Gonsalves and invited him to visit Taiwan to attend the inauguration. He concluded the video conference call by expressing his gratitude to the Caribbean ally for “its genuine friendship and conveyed Taiwan’s willingness to continue strengthening cooperation for the well-being and prosperity of the people on both sides”.
St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew commended Taiwan for its commitment to “free and fair elections, reflecting the values that underpin our shared democratic principles of our longstanding bilateral relationship that spans over 40 years.
“On behalf of the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, I extend warmest congratulations to President-Elect Lai Ching-te. This victory not only signifies the trust bestowed upon you by the Taiwanese electorate but their support for the ideals you espouse for your people.”
He said that the twin island Federation “is proud to acknowledge the enduring friendship and collaboration between our two nations and reaffirms its commitment to the resilience and strength of our relationship.
“As we look forward to continuing this journey of mutual respect and cooperation, we wish President-Elect Lai Ching-te every success in leading Taiwan to further prosperity and advancement,” he added.
