Palau's diplomatic ties with Taiwan to be tested in election year as tourism falters - CNA

WHAT DO LOCALS WANT?

While Mr Polycarp said he does not think Palau should switch ties to Beijing just for tourism income, he hopes his country would establish closer economic ties with China.

“I support both China and Taiwan… I hope in the future both can work their differences out, and the US (as well),” he added.

“(China) is a huge market and I think Palau can tap into it. But having these differences really limit us from moving forward (in) developing our country.”

His sentiment is shared by other business owners, including 29-year-old Iked, another local who also runs a diving centre.

“From a tourism perspective, we’re open to the Chinese market, but we’re also open to the Taiwan market,” he said.

“Palau has strong ties with Taiwan, and that’s a good thing. But I don’t think we should discriminate on what kind of tourism we bring into Palau, because Palau is a very international country.”

“WEAPONISING” TOURISM

China considers countries that still maintain official relations with Taiwan as interfering in its internal affairs.

Beijing has dangled promises of economic and development aid in efforts to entice Taiwan's remaining diplomatic allies to switch sides.

Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr has accused China of economic coercion and “weaponising” tourism to force his country to cut ties with Taiwan.

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2024-07-05 09:08:49Z
CBMiZWh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNoYW5uZWxuZXdzYXNpYS5jb20vZWFzdC1hc2lhL3BhbGF1LXRhaXdhbi1kaXBsb21hdGljLXRpZXMtZWxlY3Rpb24tdG91cmlzbS1jaGluYS00NDU5MzY20gEA