Chinese pressurizes tiny Pacific state to snap ties with Taiwan

Chinese pressurizes tiny Pacific state to snap ties with Taiwan https://ift.tt/tzoIK5x Pacific island state of Palau has confirmed that it is under pressure from China to switch diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China. Palau has refused to give up its diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, and President Surangel Whipps Jr. says that the country needs US help to deter China's "unwanted activities" in surrounding waters. Palau is increasingly dependent on China for tourism and money, and Beijing is working to build influence before the nation's next elections. The Palauan President is lobbying for direct investment from countries other than China to counter the pressure.