Micronesia studies diplomatic recognition of Taiwan instead of China

THE Federated States of Micronesiaa small republic in the Pacific with historical ties to the United States, are considering changing their diplomatic relations to recognize Taiwan, instead of Chinain an unusual move in this important strategic region.

In a letter signed Thursday, the outgoing president, David Panueloconfirmed that met in February the Taiwanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Joseph Wu, ask for help from Taipei and discuss a change in diplomatic recognition.

“I have been transparent with Foreign Minister Wu; we project that we need an injection of about 50 million dollars to cover our future needs. We can and we will receive it, for a period of three years, as long as we establish diplomatic relations with Taiwan.”he pointed.

In the letter, Panuelo, who will leave office in May after losing his seat in elections held last Tuesday, chastised the Asian giant, which accused of wanting to upset traditional alliances in the region.

The leader, in a 13-page long letter to state governors, said China plans to “invade” Taiwan, considered by Beijing as a rebel island, and has “spied with their boats” the waters that comprise the exclusive economic zone of Micronesia.

“We are aware of China’s activity in our exclusive economic zone, the purpose of which includes map our maritime territory for potential resources and for underwater routes”, assured in the letter, initially collected by the portal The Diplomat, Panuelo, which He accuses Beijing of waging a “political war” in his country and of bribing officials.