“We believe in freedom” Palau supports Taiwan’s sovereignty despite pressure from China – Te Ao Māori News

President Surangel Whipps says he is open to maintaining friendly relations with China, but not at the expense of Palau's relations with Taiwan.

Palau is one of twelve Pacific states that support Taiwan as a sovereign state.

But pressure from China is complicating efforts to maintain a positive relationship and putting a strain on the country's economic development.

The president told the media that China had taken lengthy measures to exclude the country and had openly stated to national news agencies that Palau was an “unsafe place, a place not to visit.”

“We have a relationship with Taiwan, and of course China has openly told us that our relationship is illegal and that we should not recognize Taiwan.”

He explained that China had said: “With us, there are no limits. We can give you everything you need.”

“We have values ​​and we have partnerships”

Despite pressure from China, Whipps is determined to maintain relations with Taiwan and is also open to developing a relationship with China.

“We are willing to be China's friend. But that does not come at the expense of our relationship with Taiwan. We value the relationship we have with Taiwan very much.”

Whipps said China had denied Palau entry to the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) meeting in Macau before the country attended the inauguration of the Taiwanese president.

“These things just kind of fall into place. That's a reality we have to face and we obviously appreciate the strength of our partners like Taiwan who have increased the number of flights to Palau.”

He said it was unfortunate that China was trying to influence them.

Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters respects Palau's relationship with Taiwan and says the countries should have the freedom and independence to make their own decisions without having to criticize their neighbor.

“That's their decision and we respect it. We hope that everyone in the world respects that decision.”