On September 20th, Kiribati became the seventh country to cut off diplomatic
relations with Taiwan since president Tsai's election. Four days prior, the
Solomon Islands did the same. These decisions to normalize relations with
Beijing by Taiwan's largest Pacific partners may convince Taipei's three
remaining Pacific allies to reconsider their positions. Poaching Taiwan's
allies helps China isolate the island, which could aid in its so-called
reunification efforts. China leverages trade and promises future investment to
convince countries to switch their recognition. China was the Solomon Islands
biggest trade partner, and allegedly promised them five hundred million
dollars in financial aid. China also promised Kiribati full funding for its
airplanes and commercial ferries. Taiwan is at risk of losing more of their
partners because they just can't compete with Chinese aid and trade.
Moreover, the United States is reducing aid to some of Taiwan's remaining allies.
Congress and the White House are considering a strategy that would punish
countries for abandoning Taiwan, but it would be more effective to offer
benefits to those that decided to support Taipei.
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