In a dramatic display of diplomatic defiance, the Pacific Islands Forum has decided to tell China exactly what it thinks of its latest ultimatum: “Not interested.” China, ever the enthusiastic global bouncer, has demanded that the Pacific Islands Forum—an eclectic collection of 18 nations ranging from mighty Australia and New Zealand to charmingly remote spots like Kiribati and Nauru—ditch Taiwan. Apparently, China believes it’s the world’s self-appointed referee in the “Should We Recognize Taiwan?” game.
China, with its characteristic charm and subtlety, views Taiwan as nothing more than a rebellious child in need of a timeout. The idea of any nation treating Taiwan as a development partner apparently sends China into fits of diplomatic rage. But the Pacific Islands Forum, in a bold show of stubbornness—or maybe just a lack of enthusiasm for playing along with Beijing’s tantrums—decided to keep Taiwan in the mix.
At their annual summit in Tonga, the Forum had a moment of collective nostalgia and reaffirmed the 1992 agreement that allows talks with Taiwan. In this charming display of unbotheredness, they also reaffirmed their commitment to keeping Taiwan’s seat at the table, much to China’s chagrin.
Despite China’s best efforts to rewrite the guest list, it’s clear that Taiwan will not be uninvited. Solomon Islands, a big fan of China, is hosting the Forum’s annual summit in 2025 and has been pushing hard for Taiwan’s eviction. Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Peter Agovaka even suggested a review to ensure the Forum consists of “sovereign states” rather than those “governed by another jurisdiction.” Seems like a clever way to sideline Taiwan without causing a diplomatic headache—if you’re not paying attention.
The Pacific, once a loyal ally of Taiwan, has seen several members switch sides, lured by China’s generous promises of development and investment. But in a true twist of irony, as China tries to muscle its way into every diplomatic nook and cranny, the Pacific nations are giving it a robust diplomatic shrug, proving once again that the global stage is not just China’s playground.
While China continues to engage in its favorite pastime—asserting its version of global order—the Pacific Islands Forum remains blissfully unperturbed, indulging in its own brand of diplomacy that clearly doesn’t include taking orders from Beijing.