Hello, and welcome to the Latin America Weekly newsletter! In this issue: China takes more pieces in its global chess match with Taiwan, while AMLO responds to Mexico’s mass opposition protests.
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Honduras becomes latest to ditch Taiwan for China
A sharp increase in trade is at the core of China’s growing influence in Latin America, but the shift is also taking place on a diplomatic level. Only three small nations in the region still recognize Taiwan as a sovereign nation.
- Honduras became the latest to cut ties with Taiwan and establish relations with Beijing, whose “One China” policy does not allow for simultaneous recognition of both countries.
State of play. Strengthening ties with China was part of left-wing President Xiomara Castro’s campaign promises, but her government stalled on the issue during its first year in office. Ms. Castro even suggested that she might backtrack on her pledge after meeting with Taiwan’s vice president shortly after her victory, but ultimately announced the “opening of official relations” with China on March 14.
Regional...