A recent strategic dialog between China and Kyrgyzstan has resulted in a significant diplomatic rift with Taiwan, as Kyrgyzstan publicly affirmed Beijing’s claim that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China [[1]]. This endorsement, made during talks focused on bolstering security and infrastructure cooperation-including discussions about a key railway project[[2]]-prompted a swift and critical response from Taipei, highlighting the increasing pressure on Taiwan’s international standing. The move underscores a broader trend of China seeking to diplomatically isolate Taiwan, while Kyrgyzstan seeks to deepen its ties with Beijing [[3]].
Kyrgyzstan’s Support for China’s Taiwan Claim Draws Criticism from Taipei
Kyrgyzstan’s recent endorsement of Beijing’s position that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China has sparked a strong rebuke from Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The move highlights the increasing diplomatic pressure on Taiwan from China and the challenges faced by Taipei in maintaining international recognition.
According to a joint statement released following the first strategic dialogue between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Kyrgyz counterpart, Jeenbek Kulubaev, Kyrgyzstan affirmed its stance that “Taiwan is part of China.” This declaration prompted an immediate response from Taiwan, with officials expressing “regret” that Kyrgyzstan had yielded to what they characterized as “authoritarian pressure” from China.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its position that cross-strait relations are not a matter of subordination, stating that neither side belongs to the other. The ministry emphasized that the People’s Republic of China has never ruled Taiwan and does not represent the people of Taiwan.
The joint statement from China and Kyrgyzstan also detailed a commitment to deepen cooperation in combating what they termed the “three forces” – terrorism, separatism, and extremism. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen the “community of a shared future” between the two nations, as discussed during the meeting between President Sadyr Japarov and Wang Yi. Discussions also included advancing the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project.
The strategic dialogue between Wang Yi and Kulubaev represents a significant step in bolstering bilateral ties. The meeting, held on November 27, focused on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including security and infrastructure development. This development underscores growing regional ties between China and Central Asian nations.
The joint statement also indicated a commitment to strengthening strategic communication and coordination on international and regional issues. The deepening relationship between China and Kyrgyzstan could influence future diplomatic talks and regional dynamics, particularly concerning Taiwan’s international standing.
