China sanctions Paraguay and Belize ministers over Taiwan ties

China imposed sanctions on Paraguay's communications minister Gustavo Villate and Belize's foreign minister Francis Fonseca on October 12 over their countries' ties with Taiwan.

The measures freeze the ministers' assets in China and bar Chinese organisations and individuals from transactions or cooperation with them. They also include visa and entry restrictions covering Hong Kong and Macau.

China's Foreign Ministry said the measures were intended to protect national sovereignty and oppose Taiwan separatism. Its accusations about the ministers' actions represent Beijing's stated justification for the sanctions.

Paraguay and Belize are among the 12 countries with formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Beijing claims the island as part of its territory, while Taiwan's government rejects that claim.

The restrictions followed Taiwan's National Day celebrations two days earlier. Villate marked the occasion with a message reaffirming Paraguay's friendship and cooperation with Taiwan. Belize's embassy also celebrated the 37th anniversary of the countries' diplomatic relations.