China Announces Sanctions on Paraguay and Belize Ministers Over Taiwan Diplomatic Ties

China announced sanctions on Paraguay's Communications Minister Gustavo Villate and Belize's Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca on October 12, citing their countries' diplomatic relationships with Taiwan. The measures include asset freezes in China, visa denials, and business prohibitions. The announcement followed Taiwan's national day by two days and comes amid ongoing efforts by Beijing to limit Taiwan's international diplomatic presence. Taiwan currently maintains formal ties with 12 countries, including Paraguay, Belize, Guatemala, and Haiti.