According to Reuters, Guatemala's foreign minister stated that the Central American country is considering the possibility of establishing formal trade relations with China. However, Guatemala intends to maintain its current relations with Taiwan.

As countries increasingly align with China, which claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as its territory and ranks as the world's second largest economy, the Central American country stands as one of Taiwan's few remaining allies.

Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez stated in an interview that, "We are going to continue working with Taiwan at the levels we have been doing."However he emphasized, " the significance and influence of China, as highlighted by the president."

Amidst a challenging transition process, President Bernardo Arevalo assumed office in mid-January, pledging to combat corruption and foster ties with China.

"We are interested in engaging with them to explore potential trade relationships," Martinez stated, proposing the establishment of an "office of trade interests" aimed at identifying Chinese markets for Guatemalan products.

"We are announcing this openly, it is not intended to be a surprise to Taiwan or the United States," he emphasized.

Despite the absence of official diplomatic ties, the United States continues to serve as Taiwan’s largest overseas supporter and a key arms supplier to Taipei.

In Latin America, where nations have traditionally maintained closer ties with the United States, China has recently bolstered its economic influence. Several Central American nations have recently switched their allegiance from Taiwan to China.

Regarding "chequebook diplomacy," Taiwan has explicitly stated its decision to cease competing with China, given China's superior economic resources.

Martinez suggested a rights-based approach to immigration by stating that the forthcoming government will refrain from the "repression" tactics of past administrations, which involved using tear gas on groups attempting to enter Guatemala en route to the United States.

He emphasized that addressing corruption and drug trafficking through cooperation would be pivotal topics in discussions with US counterparts. Martinez observed that channels for US aid, which were suspended during the previous administration, are being reinstated.  "The doors of cooperation are being reopened," he said.

Image source: Reuters