Belize, Taiwan and the Washington Connection

Belize and the United States share close ties with Taiwan, but they manage those relationships in very different ways. Belize formally recognizes Taiwan, while Washington maintains its longstanding “One China” policy and unofficial relations with Taipei. So, does Belize’s support for Taiwan strengthen its partnership with the United States, and how important is that diplomatic alliance to Washington? We put those questions to new U.S. Ambassador Andre Bauer. Here is how he responded.

 

Andre Bauer, U.S. Ambassador to Belize

“Taiwan, both of our countries have prioritized the relationship with Taiwan. I have actually been to Taiwan personally.  I have spent time with the Taiwanese in South Carolina. They have a manufacturing plant. We have a very good relationship  with the Taiwanese and we prioritize that relationship and I am very thankful that Belize has prioritized that relationship as well and I look forward to continue to facilitate that relationship with the Taiwanese.”

 

Reporter

“Why must Belize be bound to Taiwan recognition when the U.S. itself has a One China policy which recognizes mainland China?”

 

Andre Bauer

“I don’t make policy for Belize and I really not a legislature, so I am not making policy for the United States. From the perspective I have, I have personally seen the Taiwanese in good faith invest money in South Carolina, created jobs and they have been delightful to work with. That is my personal experience.”

 

Ambassador Bauer says Belize’s stance on the war in Gaza will not strain its ties with Washington.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

Watch the full newscast here: