China has expressed its dissatisfaction with the United States’ visa restrictions targeting Central Americans accused of colluding with the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The Chinese government said that the targeting of countries and citizens close to China was “another example of the U.S.-style diplomacy of bullying the small.”
In an official reaction on Monday, the Foreign Ministry denounced the “groundless attacks, coercive diplomacy, and interference” in China’s relations with allies.
“Weaponizing visas will not scare off the sober-minded,” the statement reads, condemning the attempt to scuttle “the flourishing ties” between China and Central American countries.
China insists the nation will continue to enhance cooperation with Central America for local prosperity and deliver more benefits to the people.
Last week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated America’s commitment to counter China’s “corrupt influence” in Central America and stop the “attempts to subvert rule of law.”
Drawing powers from the Immigration and Nationality Act, Rubio announced a ban on visas for Central American nationals who act on behalf of the Chinese ruling party.
The actions reaffirm President Donald Trump’s commitment to protect America’s economic prosperity and national security interests, the top US diplomat noted.
The American government indicated that it is sustaining surveillance on those who deliberately work with the CCP in Central America and destabilize the United States’ hemisphere.
