Taiwan has played down concerns that St Vincent and the Grenadines might switch diplomatic recognition to Beijing, insisting ties with its Caribbean ally remain stable despite a change of government in Kingstown.
The reassurance follows last week’s victory by the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), with its leader Godwin Friday succeeding long-time Taipei supporter Ralph Gonsalves as prime minister.
Friday did not publicly commit during the campaign to changing recognition from Taipei to Beijing, but the NDP has long advocated such a shift – prompting debate in Taiwan over whether Beijing might seek to capitalise on the transition.
Advertisement
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said its ambassador in Kingstown had offered congratulations to Friday and newly elected lawmakers “at the first moment” after results were confirmed on November 27.
Friday – sworn in as St Vincent’s fifth prime minister a day later – expressed appreciation and asked that thanks be relayed back to Taipei, according to the ministry.
Advertisement
Taiwan’s deputy foreign minister Chen Ming-chi said the 44-year relationship had built “deep friendship” across agriculture, healthcare and information technology, and cooperation would continue under the new administration.