Why Beijing’s trade deals tempt Taipei’s allies in Latin America – but not the Pacific
- China and Honduras sealed their diplomatic relationship by signing a series of economic agreements and moves towards a free-trade pact
- But that strategy might not be enough in the Pacific where there are benefits to staying on the US’ good side, analyst says
Beijing’s promises of free-trade deals and infrastructure cooperation are likely to be a bigger lure for Taipei’s remaining diplomatic allies in Latin America than those in the Pacific, according to analysts.
They also indicated that formal talks towards a free-trade agreement would begin “as soon as possible”.
02:29
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets Honduran counterpart during first-ever visit to Beijing
Honduras is just the latest country to switch recognition in the long-standing diplomatic tussle between Taiwan and Beijing – which sees the self-ruled island as a part of its territory. Most countries, including the United States, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state. Washington, however, opposes any attempt to take the island by force.
