March 15, 2023
Regarding President Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento’s announcement that Honduras will develop official relations with China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) is fully aware of related developments and has expressed grave concern over the matter to the government of Honduras. Taiwan has clearly stated to Honduras on many occasions that Taiwan is a sincere and reliable cooperative partner. The Taiwan government has consistently assisted Honduras with its national development to the best of its capabilities. The only objective behind the Chinese government’s interest in developing ties with Honduras is to suppress Taiwan’s international space. China has no intention whatsoever to promote cooperation that benefits the welfare of the Honduran people. Taiwan asks that Honduras carefully consider the matter so as not to fall into China’s snare and make a flawed decision that will undermine its many years of bilateral friendship with Taiwan.
Honduras is a key diplomatic ally of Taiwan in Central America. Over the years, the governments of Taiwan and Honduras have promoted many joint projects and bilateral exchanges that have benefited Honduras and its people, winning the general approval of its governing and opposition parties and various sectors. MOFA will further strengthen communication with the government and all sectors of society of Honduras. It will also continue to work with like-minded countries to further expand cooperation with diplomatic allies and deepen Taiwan’s partnerships with these countries.