Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez has announced that his government will seek to establish official diplomatic relations with China. The announcement came during a televised address on March 14th, 2023, in which Hernandez outlined his plans for improving Honduras’ economic prospects.
Currently, Honduras maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which China considers to be a breakaway province. However, Hernandez argued that establishing official ties with China could lead to greater economic benefits for Honduras, including increased investment and trade.
China has been seeking to expand its influence in Latin America in recent years, and has established diplomatic relations with a number of countries in the region. However, some analysts have raised concerns about China’s growing presence, particularly in countries where it has invested heavily in infrastructure projects.
The announcement by Hernandez is likely to be viewed with interest by other countries in the region, particularly those that also maintain diplomatic ties with Taiwan. It remains to be seen how the United States, which has historically exerted significant influence in Latin America, will respond to the move.
The decision to establish diplomatic relations with China is just the latest in a series of moves by Hernandez to improve Honduras’ economic prospects. In recent years, his government has implemented a number of economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and boosting economic growth.
