Statements from South African and Chinese government officials or international diplomatic analysis

South Africa Orders Taiwan to Move Representative Office from Pretoria by End of October Amid China Pressure

Oct 18, 2024, 08:19 AM

South Africa has ordered Taiwan to move its representative office out of the capital city, Pretoria, by the end of October. The directive, described as 'non-negotiable,' was communicated via email on October 7. According to a Foreign Ministry official in Taipei, the move is seen as a result of pressure from China, highlighting Beijing's growing influence over developing nations. South Africa has also threatened to close Taiwan's de facto embassy if the relocation does not occur. China has expressed appreciation for South Africa's decision, with a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman stating that 'Taiwan independence' is not popular and is doomed to fail. This development comes a month before the World Movement for Democracy is set to be held in South Africa.