China's focus on Taiwan's weakness may backfire

THE establishment of diplomatic relations by China and Panama marks the further international isolation of Taiwan. Panama's defection from Taiwan leaves barely 20 countries that still maintain relations with the island, using its formal name the Republic of China.

The move itself is not surprising, since Panama had sought ties with China almost a decade ago but was rebuffed because Beijing at the time had an understanding with then Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou on a diplomatic truce. This lasted for the duration of Mr Ma's presidency, from 2008 to 2016, during which China rejected all overtures from third countries.

In 2007, before Mr Ma - of the Kuomintang, or Nationalist Party - became president, China won over Costa Rica, reportedly by buying US$300 million worth of Costa Rican bonds. As soon as Mr Ma assumed office, however, and recognised the one-China principle reflected in the so-called "1992 Consensus", China scrupulously adhered to the diplomatic truce.