Over the past decade, support for Taiwan has dwindled as billions of dollars in Chinese investment have flowed into the African continent. Sino-Africa relations have also soared, as China dishes out loans to African states, and provides investments in infrastructure, construction, energy, transportation, and more. As economic engagement has increased, China has also expanded its diplomatic and military footprint and provided thousands of scholarships to African students to study in China every year.

The breakup with Burkina Faso comes just a few weeks after the Dominican Republic cut ties with Taiwan following reports that China had offered loans and investments worth $3.1 billion. Last year, Nigeria ordered Taiwan’s trade embassy to move out of the capital Abuja after getting a $40 billion pledge from China. And in December 2016, São Tomé and Príncipe also bid Taipei goodbye after a two-decade diplomatic relationship. Observers say the Vatican might come next, as the Holy See and China explore ways of normalizing their ties.

President Tsai has so far remained steadfast, saying China’s pressure will only push Taiwan to get closer with its allies. But the diplomatic split might still undermine her leadership, especially given that it took place just a few weeks after she made her maiden trip to Africa in a bid to keep its now remaining African ally—eSwatini—on its side.

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