China formally restores diplomatic relations with Nauru after Pacific island nation cut Taiwan ties

BEIJING (AP) — China's Foreign Ministry said Wednesday that Beijing has formally restored diplomatic relations with Nauru after the tiny Pacific island nation cut its ties with Taiwan earlier this month. Nauru's announcement on Jan. 15 came just two days after Taiwan elected a new president and left the self-governing island republic with just 12 remaining diplomatic allies, although it enjoys strong unofficial relations with the United States, Japan and other nations. China claims Taiwan as its territory and doesn't recognize its government or its right to diplomatic recognition, participation in global bodies such as the United Nations or any…