By Thabo Mosia
Dr Pieter Groenewald, leader of the Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) and Minister of Correctional Services, has publicly condemned the government’s decision to instruct Taiwan to relocate its de facto embassy from Pretoria to Johannesburg. According to Groenewald, this move is indicative of the ANC allowing China to exert undue influence over South Africa’s foreign policy.
Groenewald stated, “The fact that South Africa instructed Taiwan to relocate its ‘embassy’ from Pretoria to Johannesburg and to run it as a trade office proves that the ANC is unashamedly allowing China to pull the strings when it comes to foreign policy.” He further emphasised that this decision was made without consulting the Government of National Unity (GNU), a body that includes multiple political parties. He warned that such actions compromise South Africa’s sovereignty, undermining the collaborative spirit of the GNU, and putting the country’s economy at risk.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), however, defended the decision, framing it as a “standard diplomatic procedure.” DIRCO maintained that the move was necessary to reflect the non-political nature of South Africa’s relationship with Taiwan, and highlighted that embassies are usually located in the capital cities, which makes Pretoria a location for political, rather than trade missions. The decision is in line with South Africa’s adherence to the “One China” policy, established in 1997 when formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan were severed .
US Concerns and Taiwan’s Response
Internationally, the relocation has garnered attention, with US officials warning South Africa of potential consequences should it appear to be “bullying” Taiwan to appease China. US congressional representatives cautioned South Africa against setting a precedent of bowing to Chinese influence, warning that this could affect its standing with other democratic nations .
In response, Taiwan has accused South Africa of yielding to China’s pressure. Taiwanese officials have hinted at potential retaliatory measures, such as stricter visa rules for South Africans and a potential reduction in trade and educational exchanges. Taiwan has been forced to defend its diplomatic space internationally, as China continues to isolate it from formal recognition globally .
Economic Impact and Future Relations
Groenewald expressed concerns about the potential economic fallout from the decision. Taiwan and South Africa share a robust trade relationship, with trade volumes reaching approximately $900 million annually. Groenewald fears that the downgrade of Taiwan’s diplomatic status could lead to reduced trade relations, further threatening job opportunities in key industries such as coal, grain, and automobiles .
Moreover, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has voiced similar concerns, calling on the GNU to reconsider the decision, given the potential economic and diplomatic consequences. The DA highlighted that such a significant change to South Africa’s bilateral framework with Taiwan should not be made unilaterally and that broader consultation within the GNU is necessary to ensure a balanced approach .
China’s Expanding Influence
The relocation of Taiwan’s diplomatic office in South Africa is also seen as part of China’s broader strategy to diplomatically isolate Taiwan on the global stage. China has increased its diplomatic pressure on countries to downgrade or cut ties with Taiwan, particularly after tensions escalated following Taiwan’s National Day celebrations and China’s large-scale military exercises around the island. South Africa, as a member of the BRICS bloc, finds itself in a delicate position, balancing its economic ties with China and its broader international obligations .
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