26 Mar 2019

Nauru affirms ties with Taiwan

12:52 pm on 26 March 2019

Nauru's parliament has passed a resolution rejecting China's claims over Taiwan and its military intimidation of the state.

Tsai Ing-Wen meets Baron Waqa

Tsai Ing-Wen meets Baron Waqa Photo: Twitter/ @MOFA_Taiwan

The resolution was passed during a visit of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen.

The Nauru parliament passed the resolution recognising Taiwan as a sovereign and independent nation and rejecting Beijing's 'One Country, Two Systems' framework which applies to Hong Kong and Macau.

Taiwan's Central New Agency said by reading out the resolution, Nauru's president Baron Waqa has become the first foreign head of state to publicly express opposition in parliament to China's policy.

Mr Waqa said Taiwan and Nauru shared values of freedom and democracy and he also thanked Taiwan for its assistance and support.

The resolution gave support for Taiwan's independence and participation in international organisations.

Nauru is one of six Pacific Island countries with diplomatic ties with Taiwan.