Breaking Ties with Taiwan! Nauru Announces Name Change: Rejected 260 Million Yen Aid Request, Turns to China for Diplomatic Relations

The Pacific island nation of Nauru (Nauru) has recently made a significant announcement without prior notice. Nauru, which abruptly cut ties with Taiwan in January 2024, has once again drawn international attention. The Nauru government has officially announced that it will change its national name to 'Republic of Naoero' (Republic of Naoero) without holding a national referendum, and has begun notifying international organizations and countries about the transition process.

Nauru, which sought approximately 260 million yen in aid from Taiwan in 2024 but was rejected, immediately cut ties with Taiwan and turned to China for diplomatic relations. This name change is being closely watched as a move to strengthen ties with China.

Nauru's parliament passed a resolution to change the national name to 'Naoero' with a vote of 16-0 earlier this year, initially stating that it would take effect if approved by a national referendum. However, the government recently decided to cancel the referendum and directly implement the name change plan. The Nauru government confirmed on its official Facebook page that 'Republic of Naoero' (abbreviated as Naoero) has become the country's new official name as of today.

Nauru President David Adeang emphasized in his address to the parliament that, after extensive discussions, the decision was made to restore the national name to the local traditional name 'Naoero'. Regarding why the national referendum was canceled, the statement explained: 1. It complies with the constitution: After careful consideration by the government, it was confirmed that this action is entirely in accordance with the constitution. 2. It has long been a symbol of identity: 'Naoero' is not a new name that requires public re-recognition; it has long been engraved on the national emblem and widely used in local communities. Adeang stated that this moment is not about politics, but about cultural heritage and identity, aiming to protect the heritage of ancestors and strengthen the future of descendants. The authorities have already formally notified major international organizations and foreign governments about the name change, and the relevant transition work has been fully launched.

In its final statement, the Nauru government noted that the authorities have formally notified major international organizations and countries around the world about the name change, and the relevant administrative and international transition procedures have been launched simultaneously.