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Gambia's severance of diplomatic ties regrettable: MOFA

ROC Central News Agency

2013/11/15 15:33:08

Taipei, Nov. 15 (CNA) The Republic of China government is shocked at The Gambia's announcement of the severance of bilateral diplomatic relations and finds the decision regrettable, Deputy Foreign Minister Simon Ko said Friday.

'The decision was a personal one by Gambian President Yahya Jammeh,' Ko said at a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

The ROC government has expressed its firm position on the matter through proper channels, Ko said.

Jammeh's office issued a statement Thursday, saying that Gambia's government will cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan with immediate effect.

'This decision has been taken in our strategic national interest. We are proud that we have been a very strong and reliable partner of the ROC (China) for the past 18 years, the results of which are there for every Taiwanese to see,' the statement said.

Asked about the reasons behind Jammeh's move, Ko said the Gambian president would have his own ideas and views.

'The move is not directly linked to our flexible diplomacy,' Ko said.

Under its 'flexible diplomacy' policy, Taiwan has sought a diplomatic truce with China and opportunities to participate in international organizations and events.

Taiwan has assisted The Gambia in various fields since the two countries resumed diplomatic ties 18 years ago, Ko said, adding all those aid programs have been widely acclaimed in the West African country.

In his statement Thursday, Jammeh thanked Taiwan for its friendship and assistance over the past 18 years, Ko noted.

Relations between the two countries had been cordial, with The Gambia often speaking out on Taiwan's behalf in the international arena and high-ranking officials from both countries exchanging frequent visits, Ko said.

Ko did not respond to reporters' questions about whether Taiwan would sever diplomatic ties with The Gambia after Jammeh's unilateral announcement.

MOFA spokeswoman Anna Kao said the ministry will ask the ROC and Gambian ambassadors to seek further details about Jammeh's move.

'After conducting an overall review of bilateral relations, we will make an appropriate response in line with the principle of maintaining our national dignity,' Kao added.

Following Jammeh's unilateral announcement, Taiwan would be left with only three diplomatic allies in Africa --Swaziland, Sao Tome and Principe, and Burkina Faso.

(By Angela Tsai and Sofia Wu)
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