China and Nicaragua recognize each other, resume diplomatic ties to enhance trade

Americas, Asia-Pacific, News December 14, 2021 , by IRIA No Comments

China and Nicaragua recognize each other after almost two decades, resume diplomatic ties to enhance trade after the Central American country broke off ties with Taiwan.

China and Nicaragua signed the joint communiqué on the resumption of diplomatic relations on December 10, in Tianjin. The communiqué was signed by a representative of the Nicaraguan government Laureano Ortega Murillo and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu.

“The People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Nicaragua, in keeping with the interests and desire of the two peoples, have decided to recognize each other and resume diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level,” the joint communiqué read.

China and Nicaragua agreed to “develop friendly relations between the two countries on the basis of the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, equality, mutual benefit and peaceful coexistence.”

After signing the communique, Nicaragua severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan and agreed not to develop any official relations or official exchanges with Taiwan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on December 10 that “Nicaragua’s decision to resume diplomatic relations with China was based on its recognition of the one-China principle. It was a political decision without any economic prerequisites.”

“China has the ability to provide more diversified support to countries like Nicaragua with complementary technologies to further boost the development of its agricultural development, and Nicaragua will benefit from the BRI in terms of infrastructure investment and support,” Wang added.

Chinese observers said Nicaragua is expected to benefit from the opportunity to take part in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which will improve and develop the domestic infrastructure of the Central American nation.

Nicaragua’s decision to cut off diplomatic ties with Taiwan and recognize China leaves the island with only 14 diplomatic allies.