US lawmakers are urging President Trump to halt diplomatic and trade ties with South Africa due to its demand for Taiwan to close its office in Pretoria. They fear this move could embolden China and undermine US foreign policy. Additionally, they advocate for reconsidering South Africa’s trade privileges under US legislation.
Taipei (Taiwan News) — A group of six US lawmakers has urged President Donald Trump to terminate diplomatic and trade relations with South Africa following its demand for Taiwan to close its representative office in Pretoria. In their letter, the Representatives expressed concerns that conceding to South Africa’s request would empower China to potentially invade Taiwan, thereby undermining US strategic interests and the global pursuit of peace.
The lawmakers, including Reps. Andy Ogles, Tom Tiffany, Don Bacon, Joe Wilson, Randy Weber, and Brandon Gill, suggested that US diplomatic engagement should be paused until South Africa demonstrates constructive relations. They also proposed revoking South Africa’s special trade privileges under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, arguing this would address violations of mutual agreements regarding market economy standards and rule of law.
Previously, in October, South Africa mandated that Taiwan’s Liaison Office in Pretoria relocate by the end of the month. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected this demand, engaging in ongoing discussions with South African officials. Subsequently, in January, South Africa reiterated its demand for the office’s closure by the end of March and attempted to redefine its status as simply a “trade office.”
Taiwan suspects that the Chinese embassy in Pretoria is exerting pressure on South Africa to fulfill its requests. In light of these developments, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has instructed MOFA to explore appropriate responses, which may include asking South Africa to relocate its office in Taipei or tightening visa application procedures for South African citizens.
In summary, US lawmakers are advocating for the cessation of relations with South Africa due to its actions against Taiwan, viewing this as necessary to protect both US interests and Taiwan’s status. This situation highlights the complexities of international diplomacy influenced by larger geopolitical dynamics, notably regarding China’s involvement. The potential repercussions for South Africa, including loss of trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, emphasize the need for adherence to agreements concerning economic and diplomatic engagements.
Original Source: www.taiwannews.com.tw
