Taiwan has announced the closure of its representative office in Papua New Guinea and the suspension of its purchases of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the country, accusing China of exerting political pressure on the Pacific island nation. Taiwan's foreign ministry stated on Friday that Papua New Guinea had once again demanded that personnel at its office in Port Moresby leave within a deadline and pushed for its closure. The Taiwan side stated that it will no longer sign new spot LNG procurement contracts and will terminate technical cooperation and aid programs, including medical assistance and scholarships. Last year, imports of natural gas from the country accounted for approximately 8% of Taiwan's total supply.