Estonia to Allow Taiwan to Establish Nondiplomatic Representative Office, Maintains “One China” Policy

Estonian government revises approach to boost economic and cultural ties with Taiwan, while avoiding political relations to align national stance with EU's recognition of Beijing's "One China" policy.

• Estonia is to permit Taiwan to open a nondiplomatic representative office of Taipei to enhance their economic and cultural connections, but will adhere to the 'One China' policy in political relations.
• The alteration in Estonia's approach to Taiwan was discussed and designed during a Cabinet meeting on November 2, 2023, as part of the country’s China strategy revision.
• Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna asserted that although they don't consider Taiwan an independent country, they deem it important to rejuvenate relations with Taiwan in sectors such as economy, education, culture, and communication between civil society organizations.
• Tsahkna stated that Estonia wants to align its current China policy with that of the European Union, which sees Beijing as a partner, competitor, and rival.
• Joseph Wu, Taiwan's foreign minister, is expected to visit Estonia, where he will address Taiwan's foreign policy and participate in a local think tank discussion panel, without officially meeting any government representatives.

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