SYDNEY: The professional-Taiwan prime minister of the Pacific islands nation of Tuvalu, Kausea Natano, misplaced his seat in an election carefully watched by Taiwan, China and the US, partial outcomes confirmed on Saturday (Jan 27).
Tuvalu, with a inhabitants of about 11,200 unfold throughout 9 islands, is one among three remaining Pacific allies of Taiwan, after Nauru minimize ties this month and switched to Beijing, which had promised extra improvement assist.
Natano had pledged to proceed help for Taiwan, a diplomatic ally since 1979. One other management contender, Seve Paeniu, has mentioned diplomatic ties must be reviewed, with the brand new authorities deciding whether or not Taiwan or China can finest reply to Tuvalu’s wants.
Outcomes for the citizens of Funafuti launched on Saturday on a Tuvalu TV confirmed Natano didn’t retain his seat. He couldn’t instantly be reached for remark.
Paeniu was returned unopposed within the Nukulaelae island citizens and mentioned he’ll search to kind a coalition amongst elected lawmakers to run for prime minister.
There are not any political events in Tuvalu’s parliament, the place two lawmakers are elected in every of the eight island electorates.
