This decision, revealed by Minister of International Relations and Co-operation Ronald Lamola in response to a parliamentary question, aligns with United Nations (UN) Resolution 2758 of 1971, which recognises the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the sole legitimate representative of China.

Lamola emphasised SA's sovereign right to determine the location of foreign missions, noting that the move does not signal a change in diplomatic status, as Taiwan has not had formal relations with SA since 1997. Pretoria officially recognised the PRC the following year.

Mikatekiso Kubayi, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Global Dialogue, said SA's stance is consistent with long-standing foreign policy. “The One China policy has been part of SA diplomacy since the later years of the Mandela administration,” he said, adding that it is not a unique position, but one supported by the UN and historically endorsed by countries such as the United States.

Kubayi explained that the relocation simply reflects Taiwan’s diplomatic status in SA. “It’s a liaison office, not a full embassy. Relocating it to Johannesburg aligns it with the positioning of other consular offices, which are junior to embassies that are typically based in Pretoria,” he said.

While some may interpret the move as a diplomatic snub, Kubayi views any resistance from Taiwan as more symbolic than confrontational. “The real question is why the office remained in Pretoria for so long,” he added, suggesting the delay may hint at previous diplomatic discomfort.

On the economic front, Kubayi dismissed fears of negative fallout. “China is SA’s largest trading partner. Last year, the countries elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. That momentum isn’t likely to be disrupted by this relocation,” he said.

--ChannelAfrica--