Former Prime Minister and Founder of the New Democratic Party (NDP) Sir James Mitchell said that the timing of the statement made by the political party about severing ties with Taiwan should it form government was not in the party’s best interest.
Sir James made the comment on the October 9 edition of the OMG program on Boom FM.
“You have two years to go, you not in government – you cannot take a decision on foreign policy unless you are in government,” he said.
“Why telegraph your shot when you not in a position to execute it? To me, that is not good politics and the question is where it leads St Vincent itself.”
According to Sir James, he respected the views of the executive of the party adding that he will continue to have an influence on the party that he formed.
Former Leader of the Opposition President of the NDP Hon. Arhnim Eustace previously announced the NDP’s intention to recognize mainland China and severing ties with the Republic of China (Taiwan) which had established relations with this country back in 1981.
Dr Friday since taking over the reigns of the party, continues to support the call made by his predecessor.
Friday and members of the NDP even visited that country back in 2018 and they maintain the United Nations view of there being a One China Policy .
But Sir James commented that the United States was currently supplying Taiwan with arms, but all this country was looking for were jobs and a little assistance.
“People are saying to go because you are dealing with billions, but what kind of mind will you have – you come from a country with 110,000 and concerned about I billion, but not 24 million?” Sir James said.
While addressing a ceremony to celebrate Taiwan’s 108th National Day on October 8, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said took a jab at the NDP’s pronouncement saying that the country remained in firm support of the People’s Republic of China (Taiwan).
He said that for 38 years, successive governments have had very close relations with Taiwan and that both countries had accomplished so much.
1 Comment
I would have not broadcast my hand for different reasons to Son Mitchell. I think publicising a possible break in the future with Taiwan will cause Taiwan to give even more money to keep Gonsalves in power. They will now consider giving election money in cash as an investment of keeping SVG as a special supporter of Taiwan.