#Washington checkbook full#

foreign-policy goal of strengthening the country’s anti-corruption efforts. relationship stems from Guatemalan officials’ obstruction of the major U.S. But it has raised eyebrows in part because of its irony: The ongoing strain in the Guatemala-U.S. foreign lobbying laws, told the Associated Press. Taiwan’s payment is not illegal, Robert Kelner, an American lawyer who specializes in U.S.

investment in the country, Reuters reported. The contract officially covers consulting and advocacy “related to the United States government, including interactions with United States government officials.” Taiwan, for its part, said the move would contribute to Guatemala’s development, and Guatemala said it aimed to boost U.S. firm linked to former President Donald Trump that aims to improve Guatemala City’s relations with Washington. Per an agreement signed by the two countries that was reported this week, Taiwan will pay for a year’s worth of lobbying by a U.S. criticism and sanctions over an election that was not free and fair.įaced with these changing tides, Taiwan has maintained steady economic backing of its allies in Latin America and the Caribbean, including by providing them with development assistance and donations of masks and medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.Ī perk Taipei recently arranged for Guatemala, however, is less conventional. Just last month, Nicaragua switched its alliance from Taipei to Beijing in a move seen as a stab at Washington after U.S. In 2017, 12 countries in the region recognized Taiwan today, that number is down to eight.

#Washington checkbook full#

Of the 14 countries that maintain full diplomatic relations with Taiwan, the majority are in Latin America and the Caribbean.