China Sanctions Paraguay and Belize Ministers Over Taiwan Ties
China has imposed sanctions on ministers from Paraguay and Belize over their countries’ diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Both governments rejected the measures, while Taipei accused Beijing of interfering in their foreign policies.
China has sanctioned Paraguay’s communications minister, Gustavo Villate, and Belize’s Foreign Minister, Francis Fonseca, over their countries’ diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Beijing accused the ministers of interfering in China’s internal affairs and spreading what it described as false claims. The measures include entry restrictions for Hong Kong and Macau and a ban on Chinese organisations and individuals conducting transactions or cooperation with them.
Paraguay and Belize are among the 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. China considers Taiwan part of its territory, while Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s claim.
Villate said Paraguay would continue its joint projects with Taiwan, including plans involving a data centre. He described the sanctions as expected and said the move would strengthen his country’s resolve to pursue its existing initiatives.
Belize’s Foreign Ministry called the measures against Fonseca unwarranted, saying they would not change the country’s foreign policy or its commitment to Taiwan.
Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the sanctions, describing them as interference in other nations’ sovereignty and diplomatic decisions.
China defended the action, saying the ministers had supported Taiwan’s efforts to maintain international ties and had damaged Beijing’s interests.
The move comes amid continued Chinese pressure on Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic partners to switch recognition to Beijing. Nauru severed ties with Taiwan in 2024, while Honduras did so in 2023.
