Honduras switches allegiance from Taiwan to China in diplomatic move.

Honduras has established diplomatic ties with China after breaking off relations with Taiwan, which is now recognized by only 13 sovereign states. The move signals growing Chinese influence in Latin America and comes amid rising tensions between Beijing and the United States. China claims Taiwan is part of its territory and threatens retaliation against countries that maintain formal ties with the island democracy. Honduras had asked Taiwan for billions of dollars of aid and compared its proposals with China's. Taiwan still has ties with Belize, Paraguay, and Guatemala in Latin America, and Vatican City.