Nauru did not ask Australia for a handout says Albanese government

Australia was not approached by Nauru for more money to operate an immigration detention centre on the island. It's believed a funding spat with Taiwan contributed to Nauru's decision to sever diplomatic ties. Pacific Minister Pat Conroy said Nauru gave Canberra advanced notice it was establishing ties with China. There are now just 11 nations around the world that recognise Taiwan as an independent nation. Australia is not one of those 11 nations, also recognising Taiwan as a province of China.