The Belize government has defended Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca after China announced measures against him over his support for maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
In a statement, the government said it rejected the measures announced by China’s Foreign Ministry on October 12, describing them as unwarranted and reaffirming Belize’s right to determine its foreign policy without external pressure.
China accused Fonseca and a senior government minister in Paraguay of pursuing “anti-China” policies by supporting continued diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The measures include denying the two officials entry to Hong Kong and Macau and prohibiting Chinese organizations and individuals from engaging in transactions or other activities with them.
Belize and Paraguay are among 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory.
“Belize’s diplomatic relationship with Taiwan was established by a sovereign decision of our country,” the government said, noting that the partnership has supported cooperation in development, health, education, infrastructure, the environment and agriculture.
The government said Fonseca had acted in his official capacity, following its instructions and in Belize’s national interest.
“These measures will not alter Belize’s foreign policy, nor will they deter the Government from carrying out its responsibilities,” the statement said, adding that the government continued to stand behind the minister.
Belize also reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful relations, dialogue and the principles of the United Nations Charter, calling on countries to refrain from unilateral coercive measures against foreign officials.
The government said it would consult with bilateral and regional partners and the wider international community on the development.
Other Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan include Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, and Haiti.
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