TEGUCIGALPA: In a major development, Honduras, a Central American country, has formally severed its diplomatic relations with Taiwan, dealing a debilitating latest blow to the self-ruled island seized with almost standoff with China, which lays claim on it.
Honduras foreign ministry said in a statement that the Republic of Honduras recognised the existence of one China in the world and the government of China represented China as a whole.
It further said that Taiwan was an absolute part of Chinese territory and the government of Honduras had informed Taiwan about the severing of diplomatic relations.
China, which sees Taiwan as part of its territory despite never having ruled it, refuses to continue diplomatic relations with any country that recognises Taiwan.
China has spent much of the past 40 years trying to isolate Taiwan by chipping away at its diplomatic allies with offers of financial support.
Honduras is among 14 countries that until recently diplomatically recognised Taipei over Beijing.
Soon after the announcement by Honduras, the Taiwan government confirmed that relations had been formally severed.
Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said at a press conference that they have decided to immediately stop diplomatic relations with Honduras and suspend all bilateral cooperation plans to safeguard national sovereignty and dignity.
He added that Taiwan was asking Honduras to shut its embassy in Taipei.
On March 14, Honduran President Xiomara Castro announced that the switch in diplomatic ties was imminent.
