China has sanctioned Paraguay’s communications minister and Belize’s foreign minister over their countries’ ties with Taiwan, two days after Taiwan’s National Day. The measures freeze assets in China and bar entry to Hong Kong and Macau. Paraguay and Belize are two of Taiwan’s 12 remaining diplomatic allies.
China’s Foreign Ministry announced sanctions on Monday, October 12, against Paraguay’s communications minister, Gustavo Villate, and Belize’s foreign minister, Francis Fonseca, Al Jazeera reported, citing AFP and Reuters.
The measures took effect the same day. Beijing cited the protection of China’s sovereignty and opposition to “Taiwan separatist activities”.
What the Sanctions Do
- Freeze the two ministers’ assets in China
- Deny them visas to Hong Kong and Macau
- Bar Chinese organisations and individuals from transactions or cooperation with them
The ministry said “certain anti-China politicians” who are “driven by self-interest” had pushed their countries to keep diplomatic relations with Taiwan. It said the ministers had taken “egregious actions and statements” that damage China’s “core interests”.
What Triggered It
The announcement came two days after Taiwan’s National Day on October 10.
Villate marked the day on social media, writing that Paraguay “reaffirms its relationship of friendship and cooperation, based on shared values and principles”. Belize’s embassy in Taiwan posted a message celebrating the 37th anniversary of relations.
Last month, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited Belize, and his ministry said the two sides agreed to deepen ties.
Taiwan’s Position
In his National Day speech, Taiwan President William Lai Ching-te said the island “cherishes peace” and will “not give up our freedom”. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office condemned the speech.
China views Taiwan as its territory, a claim the island’s government rejects. In January, President Xi Jinping pledged to achieve “reunification”, calling it “unstoppable”.
Taiwan’s Remaining Allies
Taiwan has formal diplomatic relations with 12 countries. In the Americas, besides Paraguay and Belize, they include Guatemala and Haiti, and three Caribbean islands.
The United States has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is bound by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. Earlier this month it delivered two fighter jets to Taiwan.
Image: Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, October 2024 (file photo). Photo: Office of the President, Taiwan (總統府) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
