Taiwan Rejects South Africa's Office Relocation Demand Amidst China's Pressure

Taiwan has rejected South Africa's demand to relocate its representative office from Pretoria to Johannesburg, citing a 1997 agreement. This demand is seen as China's influence over South Africa. Taiwan maintains strong economic ties with both South Africa and the U.S., despite China's diplomatic pressure.

In a diplomatic standoff, Taiwan has refused South Africa's demand to relocate its representative office from Pretoria to Johannesburg, citing a violation of a 1997 agreement. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jeff Liu stated the demand was unreasonable, emphasizing the island's right to determine the location of its office.

China's influence is perceived as the driving force behind South Africa's demand, consistent with China's ongoing efforts to minimize Taiwan's international presence. Despite lacking formal diplomatic ties, Taiwan upholds robust unofficial relations with major nations like the U.S., which are observing the situation closely.

The issue has reached the U.S. Congress, with Senator Marsha Blackburn urging the Biden administration to oppose South Africa's alignment with China. She suggested potential consequences, including removal from a key trade program, highlighting the geopolitical tensions at play.

(With inputs from agencies.)