Kiribati Moves to Lock In Diplomatic Ties with China via Constitutional Change

The Kiribati government is on the verge of a significant constitutional amendment aimed at solidifying its diplomatic relationship with China, thereby preventing any future administrations from shifting recognition back to Taiwan. This legislative measure, which is set for a parliamentary vote, seeks to declare that maintaining ties with nations not recognized by the United Nations is "embarrassing" and akin to a poor marriage.

Historically, Kiribati has switched its diplomatic allegiance between China and Taiwan three times, with the most recent switch occurring in 2019 when Kiribati re-established ties with Beijing. President Taneti Maamau has since cultivated a robust relationship with China, positioning Kiribati as a key supporter of Beijing within the Pacific region.

The proposed bill, while not explicitly naming China or Taiwan, stipulates that diplomatic relations should only be with UN members or permanent observers, effectively excluding Taiwan, which has not held UN membership since 1971. It argues that aligning with non-UN entities tarnishes Kiribati's reputation and is inconsistent with the nation’s cultural values.

In a rather colorful analogy, the bill compares the diplomatic relationship with a potential partner, suggesting that Kiribati’s government should seek a "remarkable girl"—or in this context, a robust diplomatic partner. Graeme Smith from the Australian National University commented that the bill is clearly tailored to ensure Kiribati does not revert to recognizing Taiwan, regardless of future political changes.

Smith noted, "This move by Maamau appears to be almost entirely about sending a message to Beijing that Kiribati is its most important booster at the Pacific Islands Forum." He further remarked on Kiribati’s history of switching allegiances, noting that its frequent changes were only outdone by Nauru. The current bill aims to curb any future diplomatic flips that could occur if a new government takes office.

While the bill enjoys the backing of President Maamau, it previously failed to achieve the two-thirds majority needed in an April vote. Nonetheless, with Maamau's majority in parliament, the outcome of the upcoming vote remains uncertain. Moreover, the proposed changes could complicate Kiribati's relations with five Pacific Islands Forum members that are not fully independent UN members, although the bill includes provisions to exclude these territories from its scope.

As Kiribati navigates this pivotal moment, observers, including Mark Harrison from the University of Tasmania, caution that the constitutional amendment might limit Kiribati's flexibility in engaging with Taiwan economically, despite its rapid growth and significant role in the global economy.

Source: www.abc.net.au