China sees the self-ruling democratic island as part of its territory awaiting reunification and bristles at countries that might lend Taiwan diplomatic support or legitimacy. Although Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, it has remained Taiwan’s most powerful unofficial ally and biggest arms supplier. Taiwan is typically low-key in announcing its leader’s specific itineraries, fearing China will use its power to disrupt the trips. Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Christopher and Nevis, in an attempt to shore up support for Taiwan. Taiwan pledged a $150 million development loan to Haiti, while Beijing reportedly offered the Dominican Republican investments and loans to the tune of $3 billion.

Source: The Guardian July 01, 2019 09:11 UTC