Insights from Nauru's termination of diplomatic relations with Taiwan

Editor's note: Liu Kuangyu is an associate research fellow with the Institute of Taiwan Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The article reflects the author's views and not necessarily those of CGTN. The article has been translated from Chinese and edited for brevity and clarity.

On Monday, January 15, the Pacific island nation of Nauru announced the termination of "formal relations" with Taiwan region, recognizing the one-China principle and expressing the desire to establish diplomatic relations with China. 

China spoke highly of this move, stating its belief that more countries would align with the right side of history and make decisions in line with the fundamental interests of their countries and people. 

In the current sensitive Taiwan Straits context, Nauru's timely shift in its position towards the right side indicates strong international consensus on one-China principle and opposition to "Taiwan independence."

'The right side of history'

Nauru's political decision stems from a proper understanding of three grand historical trends.

Firstly, based on geopolitical considerations and its national interests, Nauru aims to free itself from the interference exerted by external hegemonies and the influence of neighboring powers, making independent political decisions based on its needs for long-term development. 

This aligns with China's approach to fostering strategic opportunities for Pacific island nations and responding to their concerns about sustainable development based on China's "four full respects" principle through the high-quality Belt and Road Initiative with extensive consultation, joint contribution, shared benefits and win-win results.

Secondly, Nauru's move is rooted in the peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits and the region. After the results of the leadership and legislature elections in Taiwan region were announced, Nauru promptly cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan region. 

Nauru should have perceived that, with the rise to power of the obstinate supporter of "Taiwan independence," Lai Ching-te, there would be a threat to international order and regional stability. Therefore, it takes concrete actions to oppose the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) stance of "seeking independence and rejecting reunification," which will escalate tensions in the Taiwan Straits.

Thirdly, it is based on a shared understanding of the one-China principle in the international community. By returning to China's "circle of friends," especially emphasizing UN Resolution 2758, Nauru shows that it has understood that the one-China principle is globally acknowledged and that peace and reunification across the Taiwan Straits are popular sentiments and an irresistible trend.

Significance of trend of termination of diplomatic relations

Taiwan region lost 10 diplomatic allies during Tsai Ing-wen's term, facing a "diplomatic avalanche." 

Nauru's choice indicates that more countries are making independent and rational decisions between unification and independence, peace and warfare, and prosperity and decline.

Nauru's severance of diplomatic ties with Taiwan region is a resounding blow to Lai, who seized power in Taiwan and proclaimed that "Taiwan stands shoulder to shoulder with international allies" and "Taiwan will not backtrack." Furthermore, it also serves as a slap in the face to Tsai's New Year's speech, where she boasted about leaving a political legacy of "the world's Taiwan."

In fact, Nauru's change is about recognizing "which government represents China" and never accepting that "Taiwan is a separate country," which reflects the spirit of one China.

From declarations of the U.S. and many Western countries that they do not support "Taiwan independence" to Nauru's severance of relations with the "Taiwan independence" authorities, many events have been ongoing relating to the Taiwan Straits recently. These political trends reflect the deepening international recognition of the one-China principle and China's reunification and rejuvenation efforts.

The "Taiwan independence" forces not only struggle within the island's borders but also encounter resistance on the international stage. 

Which country will be the next domino to fall, and what are the implications of Taiwan region's diplomatic isolation? We may find answers to these questions in the next four years.