In a recent statement, Guatemala's Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed the country's commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan while expressing an interest in developing trade ties with China. The Ministry clarified that the intentions voiced by Guatemalan Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez regarding trade with China do not contradict Guatemala's existing policy of diplomatic recognition of Taiwan.
The current government, led by President Bernardo Arevalo, has consistently pursued a dual approach of maintaining relations with Taiwan while seeking to enhance trade relations with China. This stance was reiterated by President Arevalo during a meeting with Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu at his inauguration ceremony on January 14.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the attendance of Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu at the inauguration of President Bernardo Arevalo, emphasizing Taiwan's commitment to fostering closer cooperation with Guatemala under its new administration.
Martinez emphasized that Guatemala's intention to explore trade opportunities with China does not signify a shift away from its partnership with Taiwan. He proposed the establishment of a trade office to facilitate commerce between Guatemala and China, clarifying that this initiative aims to benefit Guatemala without compromising its relations with Taiwan or the United States.
President Arevalo, following his election victory, reiterated Guatemala's commitment to maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan while expressing a desire to strengthen relations with China. He highlighted the potential for Guatemala to maintain positive relations with both China and Taiwan, citing the interest of Guatemala's private sector in expanding trade with China.
However, Guatemala's pursuit of closer ties with China alongside its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan may present challenges, particularly as China insists on other nations severing ties with Taiwan as a precondition for strengthening relations with Beijing. Currently, Guatemala and Belize stand as the only countries in Central America to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
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