The election results also underscored the acceptance of President Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) policies and programs. Thus, China not only asserted that the election did not change “the basic fact that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China,” it also criticized the other countries which sent congratulatory messages to Taiwan. Nauru’s announcement to sever ties with Taipei and establish diplomatic ties with Beijing further highlighted Xi’s efforts to isolate Taiwan. The flow of foreign direct investment (FDI) from Taiwan to New Southbound countries reached US$2.13 billion from January to June last year, while China received US$1.9 billion as FDI from Taiwan. Moreover, the pro-independence party of Taiwan retaining the presidency should not be used as a bargaining chip by other countries against China.
