In a move seen as a significant victory for China’s diplomatic efforts, South Africa has requested Taiwan to relocate its de facto embassy from Pretoria to Johannesburg. The decision has been met with contrasting reactions from Taipei and Beijing, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.
According to reports, South Africa has given Taiwan six months to relocate its liaison office from the administrative capital, Pretoria, to the commercial hub of Johannesburg. This decision is widely regarded as a demonstration of China’s growing influence among developing nations. While Taipei has expressed disappointment, accusing Pretoria of succumbing to pressure from China, Beijing has welcomed the move.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, emphasized the importance of the “One China principle” in establishing and developing diplomatic relations with countries. “We appreciate South Africa’s correct decision to relocate the Taipei liaison office out of its administrative capital, Pretoria,” she said. “Taiwan independence is unpopular and doomed to failure.”
The history of diplomatic relations between South Africa, China, and Taiwan is complex. In 1998, China opened its embassy in South Africa, a year after Pretoria severed formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan over Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Despite this, South Africa has maintained an unofficial diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, a stance shared by many countries.
This latest development comes at a time of heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei. Taiwan recently marked its national day, reiterating its rejection of China’s sovereignty claims. In response, China conducted its latest round of military drills around Taiwan. The situation is further complicated by China’s status as South Africa’s largest trading partner globally, with both countries seeking to expand cooperation as part of the BRICS bloc of developing economies.
As the BRICS annual summit approaches in Russia next week, the international community will be watching the developments between South Africa, China, and Taiwan closely. The relocation of Taiwan’s de facto embassy may be seen as a significant step in China’s efforts to assert its influence in the region, but its long-term implications remain to be seen.
