On 16 September, President Tsai issued a statement on the termination of Taiwan’s diplomatic relations with the Solomon Islands, condemning the government’s decision to establish diplomatic relations with China. Pointing out that China has continually used financial and political pressure to suppress Taiwan’s international space over the past few years, the president stated that Taiwan has responded to these actions with the sternest condemnation as not only a threat to Taiwan, but also a brazen challenge and detriment to the international order. “Taiwan’s attitude towards its diplomatic allies has been one of sincere friendship; However, in the face of China’s interference and suppression, Taiwan will not stand to be threatened, nor will we be subjected to ceaseless demands,” President Tsai stressed.
In addition, President Tsai emphasised that by luring away Taiwan’s diplomatic allies and stepping up pressure over the past few years, China has sought to damage the morale of the Taiwanese people and force Taiwan to accept “one country, two systems”. “I am confident that the 23 million people of Taiwan have this to say in response: not a chance,” she stated.
On 20 September, the president issued another statement on the termination of Taiwan’s diplomatic ties with Kiribati, expressing regret over the Kiribati government’s decision. The president pointed out that Kiribati government’s choice to leave the true friend that they had in Taiwan to act as China’s pawn is a major mistake, adding that China has chosen this time to strike a series of blows against Taiwan because only slightly more than 100 days remain until the presidential elections.
