Taiwan has shut down its representative office in Papua New Guinea and halted all aid programs following PNG's decision to close Taiwan's mission in Port Moresby. The move comes less than four months after PNG's government announced the closure, citing its commitment to the One-China Policy. Taiwan's Foreign Ministry stated that the decision was made in consideration of national dignity and diplomatic autonomy, marking a significant shift in bilateral ties.
The closure of Taiwan's office in Port Moresby, which was established in February 1990, was welcomed by Beijing but came as a surprise to Taipei. Taiwan had provided substantial support to PNG over the years, including economic, agricultural, healthcare, and talent development assistance. The Foreign Ministry expressed regret that PNG's actions had undermined the foundation of mutual trust built through long-term collaboration.
In addition to severing diplomatic ties, Taiwan has also suspended all purchases of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from PNG. The projected spot volume procurement for the first half of 2026 was approximately 500,000 tons, but no new contracts will be signed. Taiwan has been a key market for PNG's natural gas, accounting for roughly one-third of total LNG exports. The suspension is expected to have a substantial impact on PNG's natural gas exports and foreign exchange earnings.
Taiwan's Foreign Ministry emphasized that the energy supply would not be affected by the suspension of LNG purchases from PNG. The situation reflects China's continued use of political pressure and economic influence to interfere in the diplomatic decisions of other nations and suppress Taiwan's international participation.