Taiwan to form democratic union with 24 countries

Taiwan, fighting a tough battle against China for diplomatic allies, will form a non-governmental alliance with 24 countries this month to win more international recognition for its democratic achievements.
The Democratic Pacific Union (DPU) will be established on August 15, the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, to promote democratic, peace and prosperity among nations around the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan Vice President Annette Lu said on Monday.
Besides Taiwan, members consist of 11 countries in the Americas, including the United States, six countries in Asia, and seven countries in the South Pacific. "Taiwan is not a troublemaker. We pursue democracy and we love peace. We hope to share our experience with others," the staunchly pro-independence Lu told a news conference.
Taiwan was kicked out of the United Nations in 1976 and replaced by communist China, which claims the self-ruled island as part of its territory and has threatened to attack if Taipei pushes for formal independence.