Edna Molewa’s article (Basic lessons in diplomacy — in case the DA is confused over Taipei, January 16) was informative about the state of SA’s international relations. Taiwan’s position in the world is certainly anomalous, and once apartheid ended SA correctly opened full diplomatic relations with Beijing. Then it downgraded relations with Taiwan, while permitting active trade and other nonpolitical links with the island. The main purpose of Molewa’s article was clearly concerned with domestic politics rather than foreign relations. She accepts that as the official opposition, it is natural for DA politicians to take positions contrary to the government, but then accuses it of pursuing "an independent and rogue foreign policy" by allowing one of its office bearers to go to Taiwan, thus endangering SA’s relationship with "a major trading partner" — that is, China. She implies that Solly Msimanga’s jaunt to Taiwan was in some degree treasonable. Maybe she thinks the government should...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.