Guatemala is contemplating establishing formal trade connections with China while affirming its ongoing relations with Taiwan, revealed Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez on Monday.
As one of Taiwan’s few remaining allies, Guatemala is navigating a delicate diplomatic balance amid global shifts favoring China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan. President Bernardo Arevalo, in office since mid-January, seeks to combat corruption and explore ties with China without severing existing connections.
“We are interested in approaching them to try and develop some relationship around trade,” Martinez stated, highlighting the potential establishment of a “trade interests office” to facilitate Guatemalan product access to the Chinese market. The government emphasizes transparency in this endeavor, ensuring it does not undermine relations with Taiwan or the United States.
While the United States remains Taiwan’s crucial international supporter and primary arms supplier, China’s growing economic influence in Latin America prompts shifts in allegiances. Guatemala’s openness to engaging with China aligns with broader trends in Central American countries transitioning from Taiwan to China.
Taiwan has signaled a shift away from competitive “checkbook diplomacy” against economically stronger China. In the context of migration, Martinez emphasized a rights-based approach, distinguishing the new government from prior administrations that used force against groups crossing Guatemala en route to the United States.
Martinez outlined corruption and drug trafficking cooperation as pivotal discussions with U.S. counterparts, signaling a renewed commitment to re-establish aid channels previously frozen. Guatemala aims to foster a collaborative relationship with the United States, emphasizing openness to cooperation in various domains.
