Exclusive: Taiwan Ally Guatemala Considers Commercial Ties with China, Says Foreign Minister

By Sofia Menchu

GUATEMALA CITY – Guatemala is contemplating establishing formal trade relations with China, according to the country’s foreign minister, who emphasized that the nation intends to maintain its current allegiance to Taiwan.

As one of the few remaining allies of Taiwan, Guatemala faces pressure as various countries increasingly align themselves with China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory despite Taiwan’s democratic governance.

"We will continue to engage with Taiwan as we have done," said Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez in an interview. "However, the president has noted that we cannot overlook the significance and influence that China holds."

President Bernardo Arevalo took office in mid-January, following a challenging transition, and has pledged to combat corruption and explore relations with China.

"We are interested in connecting with them to foster trade relationships," Martinez explained, suggesting the potential establishment of an "office of trade interests" to facilitate access to the Chinese market for Guatemalan products.

"We want to make it clear that this is not an act against Taiwan or the United States," he added.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry stated that it will continue to strengthen cooperation with Arevalo’s new government based on shared democratic values. Meanwhile, the United States remains Taiwan’s most significant supporter internationally, despite a lack of formal diplomatic relations.

In recent years, China has expanded its economic presence in Latin America, where nations traditionally had stronger ties to the United States. Several Central American countries have shifted their recognition from Taiwan to China.

The Chinese foreign ministry expressed that the "one China" principle is essential for cooperation with all nations, including Guatemala. Spokesperson Wang Wenbin expressed hopes that Guatemala’s new government would recognize the historical and contemporary trends and make decisions aligned with the nation’s long-term interests.

Taiwan has indicated it no longer seeks to compete financially with China in what is termed "checkbook diplomacy."

On the topic of migration, Martinez indicated a rights-focused approach, stating that the new administration would avoid the repressive tactics of previous governments, such as using tear gas on groups attempting to cross Guatemala in hopes of reaching the United States.

Martinez also highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling corruption and drug trafficking issues with U.S. officials, mentioning that aid channels previously frozen under the last administration are being reopened.

"The doors of cooperation are being re-established," he stated.