US decries Nauru’s ‘unfortunate’ ditching of Taiwan

TAIPEI—The US official who heads the body that handles unofficial ties with Taiwan on Tuesday decried Nauru’s “unfortunate” decision to break ties with Taipei and warned that Beijing’s promises often go unfulfilled. Laura Rosenberger, chair of the Virginia-based American Institute in Taiwan, told reporters in Taipei that Nauru’s move was “unfortunate” and the United States encourages all countries to expand engagement with Taiwan. “While the government of Nauru’s action is a sovereign decision, it is nonetheless a disappointing one,” she said. “The PRC often makes promises in exchange for diplomatic relations that ultimately remain unfulfilled,” Rosenberger added, referring to the People’s Republic of China. —REUTERS