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Taiwan reviews Papua New Guinea LNG imports after office closure
🇨🇳 China /Economy & Trade

Taiwan reviews Papua New Guinea LNG imports after office closure

From South China Morning Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Taiwan is reviewing its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from Papua New Guinea following Port Moresby's decision to close Taipei's unofficial representative office.
  • Papua New Guinea stated the closure reflects its "unwavering commitment to the one-China policy" ahead of its 50th anniversary of ties with Beijing.
  • Beijing welcomed the move, while Taiwan criticized the lack of prior consultation and is reviewing bilateral economic ties.

Taiwan is reassessing its liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from Papua New Guinea after the Pacific nation announced the immediate closure of Taipei's unofficial representative office.

unwavering commitment to the one-China policy

— Justin TkatchenkoPapua New Guinea's Foreign Minister explained the reason for closing Taiwan's representative office.

Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko stated the decision aligns with the government's "unwavering commitment to the one-China policy." This move comes shortly before the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's diplomatic relations with Beijing.

China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian swiftly welcomed the closure, describing it as proof that adherence to the one-China principle "reflects the will of the international community and the prevailing trend of the times." Beijing pledged to continue supporting Port Moresby on issues of "core interests" and deepen their strategic partnership.

highly commends

— Lin JianChina's foreign ministry spokesman welcomed Papua New Guinea's decision.

Taipei, however, expressed criticism, noting that it was not consulted beforehand. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung announced that the government has initiated a review of bilateral economic relations, which includes long-term LNG imports, and stated that Taiwan's office would remain open during negotiations.

reflects the will of the international community and the prevailing trend of the times

— Lin JianThe Chinese spokesperson commented on the significance of adhering to the one-China principle.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by South China Morning Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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