Fatshimetrie recently witnessed a major decision by the Department of International Relations, regarding the relocation of Taiwan’s offices from Pretoria to Johannesburg. The move, which has sparked debate, was presented as standard diplomatic practice by the department’s spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri.
Indeed, the South African government has given Taiwan six months to move its offices from the diplomatic capital to Johannesburg. This request is justified as being in line with standard diplomatic practice, according to Mr Phiri. Since the severance of political and diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1997, Taiwan’s continued presence in Pretoria was seen as an anomaly that needed to be corrected.
Mr Phiri stressed that Johannesburg, as the country’s economic hub, was the appropriate location for Taiwan’s trade offices. He also said the move was in line with the standard practice of having foreign embassies and high commissions located in capital cities.
Although the Department of International Relations has rejected any external pressure regarding the transfer request, the Democratic Alliance (DA) political party has expressed concerns about it. According to DA spokesperson for international relations, Emma Powell, the pressure on the government raises concerns about South Africa’s non-aligned position.
The DA stresses the importance of maintaining existing trade agreements with Taiwan and warns against any change in position that could jeopardize the relationship that has been established for years. In the context of a national unity government, the DA stresses the need to reach consensus before making foreign policy decisions.
As the leading publication in Fatshimetrie, we will continue to closely monitor the developments in this diplomatic situation between South Africa and Taiwan, and we will encourage dialogue and transparency to ensure mutually beneficial relations.