Any strategy by Beijing to leave Taiwan stripped of allies may well backfire
Michal Thim says Taiwan appears unlikely to lose sleep over losing Sao Tome ties to China, and attempts to leave Taipei diplomatically isolated may work against unification hopes
Competition for recognition between Taipei and Beijing, which became known as “cheque book diplomacy”, has been an extension of cross-strait conflict to a global diplomatic arena. South Korea, Singapore, and South Africa were among notable nations to switch recognition to Beijing in the 1990s.
Thus, it is no wonder that many see Beijing pulling strings whenever one of Taiwan’s “diplomatic allies” switches recognition. Sao Tome and Principe recently announced it would establish diplomatic relations with China. What followed was a very predictable string of events, including the termination of diplomatic ties with the West African nation by Taipei, Beijing’s acceptance of the recognition, and accusations and defiance on Taiwan’s side.
Watch: Taipei loses another ally
