TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) called China a regional “troublemaker” after the Solomon Islands excluded Taiwan and 23 other dialogue partners, including the US and China, from participating in this year’s Pacific Islands Forum.
In an interview with The Australian published on Friday, Lin said pressure from Beijing led to the Solomon Islands’ decision. However, both China and the US have embassies in the Solomon Islands, allowing them to engage with forum members informally, while Taiwan was completely shut out.
The Solomon Islands, this year’s PIF host, severed ties with Taiwan in 2019 and switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing.
The PIF was founded in 1971 and seeks to “foster collaboration and cooperation in the pursuit of shared goals” in the Pacific region, according to its website. It currently comprises 18 countries and territories, including three of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies: Tuvalu, the Marshall Islands, and Palau.
Lin said that Taiwan would continue to seek alternative ways to contribute to the forum. He stressed that Taiwan has been a long-time regional development partner and should not be excluded due to Chinese pressure.
The “Pacific Way,” a philosophy embraced by regional countries, emphasizes inclusiveness and facing challenges together, he said. Blocking dialogue and development partners undermines collective efforts to address those challenges.
Lin hoped Taiwan would be able to participate in next year’s PIF, hosted by Palau, and demonstrate its contributions to development among the Pacific Island nations.
