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South Africa has requested Taiwan to move its de facto embassy from Pretoria, the administrative capital, to Johannesburg within six months. This decision highlights Beijing’s growing influence among developing nations.
While Taiwan has accused South Africa of yielding to Chinese pressure, Beijing has praised the move. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated the importance of the One China principle, stating it is the foundation of China’s diplomatic relations. “We appreciate South Africa’s correct decision… Taiwan independence is unpopular and doomed to failure,” she added.
China established its embassy in South Africa in 1998, a year after Pretoria cut formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, though unofficial relations have continued. This latest development comes amid heightened tensions between China and Taiwan. Taiwan recently celebrated its national day, rejecting China’s sovereignty claims, while China responded with military drills around the island.
China remains South Africa’s largest global trading partner, and the two nations are expanding their cooperation. Both are members of the BRICS bloc, which is set to hold its annual summit in Russia next week.
