A new petition urging Australia to recognize Taiwan has gained thousands of signatures. The petition, proposed on the Australian parliament’s website, calls for formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
The petition says, “The Republic of China is a modern liberal democracy with a population approaching 24 million people and a beacon for democracy.” It also talks about the important role it plays in the defense and security of East Asia.
The Republic of China is the official name of Taiwan’s government.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it’s monitoring the story, and will respect the outcome of the petition and the mechanisms of the Australian government. The ministry says it welcomes any opportunity to improve its relationship with Australia.
This petition launched by an Australian citizen follows on the heels of similar petitions in the United States and Germany, calling for formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.