Taiwan Left Solomon Islands

Former bilateral partner, Republic of China, Taiwan closed down its embassy in the Solomon Islands as of today.

Taiwan President, Tsai Ing-wen issued a statement on the termination of diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands last night.

President Tsai said all technical and medical mission personnel stationed in the country are being recalled immediately.

She thanks all Taiwan Government personnel in the country for fighting bravely to save our diplomatic relationship.

President Tsai said, it is indeed regrettable that a number of unfinished cooperative projects must come to an end, and it is a loss for Solomon Islands people.

She said this is the choice that Solomon Islands’ government has made, leaving Taiwan with no other option but to respond in this way.

Taiwan strongly condemns the Solomon Islands government’s decision to establish diplomatic relations with China.

Over the past few years, China has continually used financial and political pressure to suppress Taiwan’s international space, said President Tsai.

She said, in the face of China’s interference and suppression, Taiwan will not stand to be threatened, nor will we be subjected to ceaseless demands.

Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands Embassy in Taipei has issued a statement to the Solomon Islands students studying in various universities in Taiwan, calling for a meeting with the executive committee members of the student body tomorrow.

His Excellency Joseph Waleanisia said the discussion will be on the implications of the Government decision and what to do next.

His Excellency Waleanisia will put out further notice to all students later today after consultations with Honiara and further instructions from ROC’s Ministry of Finance.

Solomon Islands student studying in Taiwan are shocked at the sudden bilateral switch saying, this decision comes at the expense of their future.

The news was a great shock especially to our students who have completed their studies and will be graduating this year.

SIBC News understands Taiwan is yet to comment on this.