TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan faces potential diplomatic challenges after Saint Vincent and the Grenadines elected a new government Nov. 27 that previously advocated severing ties with Taiwan in favor of China. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) expressed confidence Monday (Dec. 1) in Taiwan's 44-year relationship with the Caribbean nation despite the New Democratic Party's (NDP) election victory. Prime Minister Godwin Friday led the NDP to power, raising concerns about Taiwan's diplomatic standing with one of its 12 remaining allies.
Chen emphasized solid international cooperation between the two countries and stated he remains very confident about future ties despite the NDP's previous pro-China stance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (外交部) reiterated that Taiwan's relations with its 12 diplomatic allies remain stable. President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) potential visit to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to strengthen diplomatic ties has become a focal point amid the political transition.
Honduras concluded voting in its presidential election Sunday (Nov. 30) with a tight race between three candidates, two of whom support re-establishing diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Liberal Party candidate Salvador Nasralla and right-wing candidate Nasry Asfura have both shown support for restoring ties severed by incumbent President Xiomara Castro's administration in 2023. Rixi Moncada, backed by Castro, represents the third major candidate in the race that could determine Taiwan's diplomatic prospects in Central America.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged close cooperation with Honduras and noted the election outcome could influence Taiwan's ability to restore diplomatic ties with the Central American nation. The Democratic Progressive Party (民進黨), Taiwan's ruling party, legislator Lin Chu-yin (林楚茵) suggested that the foreign ministry or presidential office prepare plans for President Lai's potential visits to allied nations. Prospects for a visit to Central and South America this year appear slim due to difficulties transiting through the United States. ◼