Taiwan Protests PNG Move to Close 1 Office, Reassesses Ties
Updated
Updated · Focus Taiwan · Jul 16
Taiwan Protests PNG Move to Close 1 Office, Reassesses Ties
2 articles · Updated · Focus Taiwan · Jul 16
Summary
Taiwan said its representative office in Papua New Guinea will keep operating despite Port Moresby's decision to stop recognizing it and close the mission.
MOFA called the move abrupt and unilateral, saying PNG announced it without prior negotiations and that Taipei rejected the decision.
Taipei said it will reassess cooperative projects and economic exchanges with PNG before deciding further countermeasures.
PNG said the closure reflects its commitment to the one-China policy; China publicly welcomed the move.
Taiwan's office in PNG has operated since 1990 without formal diplomatic ties, making the dispute a fresh setback in Taipei's international space.
After signing a defense pact with Australia, why did Papua New Guinea suddenly appease Beijing by closing Taiwan's office?
With a $2 billion trade partnership at risk, what did China offer Papua New Guinea to abandon Taiwan?
Papua New Guinea’s Closure of Taiwan Office in 2026: Geopolitical Shifts, Risks, and the China-Australia-Pacific Power Balance
Overview
In July 2026, Papua New Guinea's decision to close Taiwan's representative office in Port Moresby caused an immediate diplomatic rupture, highlighting the sensitive balance of power in the Pacific. Taiwan responded by seeking direct talks with PNG and calling for support from like-minded countries, aiming to limit diplomatic fallout. Meanwhile, China strongly approved PNG's move, with its foreign ministry emphasizing the 'One China' principle and efforts to isolate Taiwan internationally. This event underscores the ongoing rivalry between China and Taiwan for influence in the region and reflects PNG's complex position in navigating major power interests.