China, Sao Tome restore diplomatic ties

China signed an agreement to restore diplomatic relations with Sao Tome and Principe Monday, just days after the small African nation announced it had cut ties with Taiwan. The move comes amid heightened tensions between Beijing and the independence-leaning government of the self-ruled island, which Chinese leaders view as a “renegade province.” Chinese foreign minister […]

China signed an agreement to restore diplomatic relations with Sao Tome and Principe Monday, just days after the small African nation announced it had cut ties with Taiwan.

The move comes amid heightened tensions between Beijing and the independence-leaning government of the self-ruled island, which Chinese leaders view as a “renegade province.”

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi and his counterpart Urbino Botelho signed a document formalising their new relationship at the Diaoyutai State Guest House.

“We need to acknowledge that China is playing an increasingly important role internationally,” Botelho said, adding “we want to make good on our past mistakes.”

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Wang said China “highly appreciated” Sao Tome’s choice.

“We are happy to see that Sao Tome and Principe has actively conformed to the tide of history, looking at the facts and long-term interests of both countries’ peoples,” he said.