China dismantles base
1 January 2004
The Chinese government dismantled its mid- Pacific satellite tracking base following the decision by the tiny Pacific atoll nation of Kiribati to switch its diplomatic recognition to Taiwan.
China also suspended diplomatic ties, withdrew its doctors from the only hospital and halted construction of a sports stadium. Witnesses said a Chinese ship suddenly arrived in Kiribati, sparking action at the sprawling satellite base.
China said the station played a key role in its historic manned space flight in October.