TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) revealed on Monday (April 21) that several Honduran presidential candidates have expressed interest in re-establishing diplomatic ties with Taiwan, a move he welcomes. Taiwan is actively supporting Belize's white shrimp industry through the "Co-Prosperity Project" (榮邦計畫) to strengthen ties with diplomatic allies. According to related media reports, Honduras' decision to sever relations with Taiwan in 2023 severely impacted its shrimp industry.
Speaking at the Legislative Yuan (Taiwan's parliament) session earlier that day, Lin confirmed the candidates' intentions to restore relations and emphasized Taiwan's close monitoring of the situation as Honduras will hold its presidential election at the end of this year. Lin described the collapse of Honduras' shrimp industry as severe, while Taiwan supports Belize's shrimp sector by sending Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, 衛服部) teams to inspect facilities. Taiwanese businesses aim to import shrimp and lobster, promoting economic diplomacy that makes allies proud of their ties with Taiwan.
Lin mentioned Paraguay's similar Glory Diplomacy Project and stated that South American countries interested in diplomatic relations with Taiwan could follow suit. He also noted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's praise for Guatemala's continued diplomatic ties with Taiwan and Taiwan's increased investment and aid to the country.
