The Central American country of Honduras wants to establish formal diplomatic relations with China. Which is definitely bad news for Taiwan. Because, Honduras is one of the 14 countries that recognize Taiwan in the world. Even the United States, Taiwan’s strongest international ally, has yet to officially recognize Taiwan’s independence Now, if Honduras turns to China, the number of countries that recognize Taiwan will drop to just 13. Although Taiwan has declared itself independent, China considers the island a breakaway territory that will one day be reunited. For this reason, Beijing has warned of using force if necessary. China’s foreign policy is largely dependent on Taiwan’s relationship with the rest of the world. This is known as ‘One-China Policy’ or One China Policy. China, the second largest economy, is becoming an influential force in the international world day by day. Especially China’s dominance in world trade is increasing day by day. In this situation, the President of Honduras Xiomara Castro said, our main goal is the expansion of foreign relations. However, the Taiwanese government repeatedly forbids Honduras to step into China’s ‘leaf trap’. A statement from Taiwan’s foreign ministry said, “We have asked Honduras to consider the matter very carefully and not to fall into China’s trap.” I told them not to make the wrong decision to damage the long-standing friendship between Honduras and Taiwan.” Beijing will also benefit if China establishes diplomatic relations with Honduras. Because, through friendship with Honduras, they will be able to put their feet in that region. Chinese President Xi Jinping has asserted his power as a leader. At such a time, China has tried to expand its influence around the world. Besides, the country also aims to restore the fragile economy with zero covid policy. Therefore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China welcomed the wish of the Honduran President with joy on Wednesday. Said they are also interested in establishing “relationships of friendship and cooperation” with Honduras. Meanwhile, it is a danger signal for Taiwan. Because, after Tsai Ing-wen became the president of Taiwan in 2016, this island nation lost 8 diplomatic allies. Castro became the president of Honduras in 2021. He said he has instructed his foreign ministry to start the process of establishing formal relations with China. Which is part of his election promise. The Honduran president has not said anything specific about whether he will break diplomatic relations with Taiwan if diplomatic relations are officially established with China. However, in January 2022, he said that he would maintain the relationship. A few weeks before Castro announced his desire to forge ties with China, his government was reportedly in talks with China to build a hydroelectric plant. Earlier in 2021, Beijing loaned Honduras US$300 million for a similar project. The announcement of Honduras’ interest in establishing ties with China comes as Taiwanese President Tsai plans to visit allies in Central America next month. He is also scheduled to visit the United States. Which will further increase the Beijing-Washington tension, according to political analysts.
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