The Government of Belize has rejected sanctions imposed by the People’s Republic of China against Foreign Affairs Minister Honorable Francis Fonseca, stating that the measures will not change Belize’s foreign policy or its diplomatic relationship with the Republic of China (Taiwan).
China announced the sanctions on October 12th, also targeting Paraguay’s Minister of Information and Communication Technologies, Gustavo Villate. The measures include freezing any assets the ministers may hold in China, denying them visas and entry, and prohibiting Chinese individuals and organizations from doing business with them or cooperating with them.
According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the sanctions took effect immediately. China accused Belize and Paraguay of making statements that undermine its core interests.
In response, Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the country’s sovereignty and independence. “Under the Charter of the United Nations, every state has the right to conduct its foreign policy free from external pressure. Belize’s diplomatic relationship with Taiwan was established by a sovereign decision of our country,” the government’s statement read.
The statement added that the measures would not deter the government from carrying out its responsibilities and affirmed its continued support for Minister Fonseca.
Belize also highlighted the benefits of its partnership with Taiwan, citing cooperation in development, education, infrastructure, environmental protection, agriculture, and health.
In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Taiwan is supporting and funding the construction of a US$16.68 million hospital. The medical facility is intended to serve residents of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker and is expected to be completed between late April and mid-May 2027.
In a message shared by the Embassy of Taiwan in Belize, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to China’s October 12th announcement of sanctions against the Belizean and Paraguayan ministers. “We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere appreciation to the government and people of Belize for standing up firmly with Taiwan, and fighting against the oppression and intimidation from authoritarianism,” the embassy’s message read. “We also wish to extend our utmost respect for Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca.”
Belize and Paraguay are among the 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Other diplomatic allies include Guatemala, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Haiti, the Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu, Eswatini, and the Holy See.