Nicaragua Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Taiwan... Establishes Relations with China

President Daniel Ortega (photo left) and his wife Rosario Murillo, the Vice President. (Photo by Reuters)

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] The Nicaraguan dictatorship declared the severance of diplomatic ties with Taiwan, stating that "the world recognizes only one China, which is the People's Republic of China," according to reports by CNN and others on the 9th (local time).

Denis Moncada, Nicaragua's Foreign Minister, stated on television that "the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing all of China, and Taiwan is undoubtedly a part of Chinese territory."

He added, "The Nicaraguan government will sever diplomatic relations with Taiwan as of today and will not engage in any contact or official relations."

Nicaragua had previously severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1985 but re-established them in 1990; both instances of severance occurred during President Daniel Ortega's administration.

Foreign media analyzed that the Ortega regime, which extended its term through fraudulent elections and is expected to face economic difficulties due to U.S. sanctions, has allied with China to obtain aid.

Following the news of the severance, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing "pain and regret," announcing the termination of diplomatic relations with Nicaragua, suspension of bilateral cooperation, and withdrawal of personnel.

They emphasized, "Taiwan, as a member of the international community, has the right to establish and develop diplomatic relations with other countries."

With Nicaragua's announcement of severance, the number of countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan has decreased to a total of 14, including Honduras and Guatemala.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.