Marshall Islands confirms diplomatic support for Taiwan

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – The Marshall Islands has confirmed its support for Taiwan after two other small Pacific Island nations switched their diplomatic allegiance to China.

The nation announced Wednesday that its parliament passed a resolution last week expressing its “profound appreciation” for Taiwan’s support over the past 20 years. It said Taiwan had demonstrated “an unwavering commitment to promoting freedom, democracy and human rights.”

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said its co-operation with Pacific island countries is based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. He said there is only one China in the world, and that more countries would join the large group supporting the one-China principle.

The Solomon Islands and Kiribati switched their allegiance to China last week as Taiwan continued to become more diplomatically isolated.

China has promised billions of dollars in aid for the countries that have switched allegiance since Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016.

Taiwan has only 15 allies left, compared to about 180 countries that recognize China. Taiwan looks to its allies for international legitimacy and a voice at the United Nations.