Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on September 7 that Palau and some other countries maintain what she called relations with Taiwan not in the fundamental interests of their nations and people, but to make money for a small group of vested interests.
Mao made the remarks at a regular press briefing after being asked about a Solomon Star report. The newspaper said Taiwan’s aid to Palau had risen from $18 million last year to $25 million this year.
The report said the increase was intended to secure political support at the Pacific Islands Forum. It also said Taiwan’s authorities had provided grants and direct cash payments totaling nearly $281,000 to Palau officials, a former president and lawmakers.
