Warning To Others: China Sanctions Paraguay, Belize Ministers Over Taiwan Ties

China on Monday defended its decision to sanction senior officials from Paraguay and Belize over their diplomatic ties with Taiwan, describing the measures as a “warning to others” against supporting the self-governed island.

The sanctions target Paraguay's Communications Minister Gustavo Villate and Belize's Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca. China's Foreign Ministry said the officials had made statements and taken actions that harmed Beijing's core interests and undermined its sovereignty.

The sanctions include freezing any assets the officials hold in China, denying them entry into mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, and prohibiting Chinese individuals and organisations from conducting business or cooperating with them.

Villate recently reaffirmed Paraguay's ties with Taiwan, citing shared values including democracy, human rights and self-determination. Paraguayan President Santiago Pena has also described Taiwan as a fundamental partner. During a visit to Taipei earlier this year, Pena signed agreements covering cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, computing investment and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters.

Belize has also strengthened its relationship with Taiwan. Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung visited the Central American country in September, with both sides expressing their commitment to deeper cooperation.

Paraguay and Belize are among Taiwan's 12 remaining formal diplomatic allies worldwide. The others include Guatemala, Haiti, several Caribbean and Pacific island nations, Eswatini in southern Africa and the Vatican.