China sanctions Belize, Paraguay officials over Taiwan diplomatic ties

China's foreign ministry announced sanctions against select government officials from Belize and Paraguay on Thursday, escalating tensions over the two nations' continued diplomatic recognition of Taiwan.

The Chinese government accused the targeted politicians of adopting anti-China positions by supporting Taiwan's diplomatic status. Beijing characterised the officials' stance as a challenge to Chinese sovereignty and national security, according to statements from the ministry.

The sanctions mark China's latest effort to isolate Taiwan internationally and pressure nations maintaining formal ties with the self-governed island. China claims Taiwan as a breakaway province and has intensified diplomatic campaigns to reduce the number of countries recognising Taipei.

Belize and Paraguay remain among a shrinking group of nations that maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan rather than the People's Republic of China. Both countries have resisted Beijing's overtures to switch allegiance, though China has reportedly offered significant economic incentives for recognition.

The exact nature of the sanctions imposed by China was not immediately detailed, though such measures typically include travel bans and asset freezes targeting the affected individuals.