23. In a symbol of China’s growing influence around the world (albeit a small and indirect sign), only 23 countries maintain formal relations with Taiwan. Beijing contends that there is “one China” and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Through political power and pocketbook diplomacy, Beijing pressures the international community to disavow Taiwan’s statehood – more than thirty countries have switched their allegiances to China over the past three decades.
Regardless, Beijing currently enjoys warmer ties with Taipei.
Photo from Nir Elias/Reuters.