China and Nauru have formally restored diplomatic relations after Nauru cut ties with Taiwan earlier this month. The move is part of China’s effort to isolate Taiwan’s democratic government. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Nauru’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Lionel Aingimea in Beijing. Aingimea stated that Nauru recognizes Taiwan as part of China. Nauru first established diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1980, switched to Beijing in 2002, then back to Taiwan in 2005. This leaves Taiwan with only 12 remaining diplomatic allies. China claims Taiwan as its territory and opposes any official contact with foreign political entities.