Beijing, October 12: China has imposed sanctions on two ministers from Paraguay and Belize over their countries’ diplomatic relations with Taiwan, freezing their assets in China and restricting their ability to conduct business with Chinese organisations. The move underscores Beijing’s continued efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically.
The Chinese foreign ministry announced the measures on Monday against Paraguay’s Communications Minister Gustavo Villate and Belize’s Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca. The sanctions include asset freezes, visa restrictions and a ban on Chinese organisations and individuals conducting business with the two ministers.
Beijing accused the officials of supporting Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships despite China’s objections. In statements published online, the foreign ministry said the ministers had taken actions and made remarks that damaged China’s core interests.
The ministry said the measures were intended to safeguard national security and oppose what Beijing describes as separatist activities.
The announcement came two days after Taiwan celebrated its national day, an occasion that prompted renewed expressions of support from some of its diplomatic partners.
Villate marked the occasion on social media, stating that Paraguay reaffirmed its friendship and cooperation with Taiwan based on shared values, including self-determination, human rights and democracy.
Taiwan’s diplomatic struggle
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly vowed to bring the self-governed island under its control, using force if necessary. Beijing has also worked to persuade countries to sever official diplomatic relations with Taipei and recognise the Chinese government instead.
Taiwan currently has only 12 formal diplomatic allies worldwide, reflecting the pressure it faces from Beijing.
Paraguay remains one of Taiwan’s most important diplomatic partners in South America. Paraguayan President Santiago Pena has described Taiwan as a fundamental partner for his country.
Earlier this year, Pena visited Taipei and signed several agreements covering mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, cybersecurity cooperation, artificial intelligence and computing investment.
Belize has also maintained formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Last month, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited Belize, where the two sides reportedly agreed to deepen their bilateral relationship.
Taiwan’s other diplomatic partners in the Americas include Guatemala and Haiti, alongside several Caribbean nations.
Wider geopolitical implications
The latest sanctions highlight the growing diplomatic competition between Beijing and Taipei, particularly as Taiwan seeks to strengthen international partnerships in technology, security and economic cooperation.
China maintains that countries should not establish official relations with both Beijing and Taipei. Taiwan, meanwhile, continues to defend its international partnerships and democratic system.
The sanctions against Villate and Fonseca could further complicate China’s relations with Paraguay and Belize, although the immediate impact on their bilateral ties remains uncertain.
The development also comes amid broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Taiwan’s international status, with Beijing continuing to oppose official exchanges between the island and countries that recognise the People’s Republic of China.
Neither the sanctions nor China’s diplomatic pressure has changed the fact that Taiwan continues to govern itself, with its own elected leadership and institutions.
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