Chinese President Xi Jinping has announced that his country will provide economic support for Honduras. The Central American nation's president is currently visiting China, following the establishment of diplomatic relations with the country in March.

Xi on Monday met with Honduras' President Xiomara Castro, who is on a six-day official visit to China.
Honduras formed ties with Beijing after cutting them with Taiwan.

China's foreign ministry quoted Xi as saying Castro's visit opens a new chapter in the history of bilateral relations and that Beijing will firmly support the economic and social development in Honduras.

Xi suggested that China will step up its economic support for Honduras, including facilitating Honduran products entering the Chinese market.

Castro told Xi that establishing ties with China was a historic choice for her country. She said Honduras resolutely supports Beijing's efforts for realizing national unification.

The number of sovereign states that recognize Taiwan has hit a record low of 13, seven of which are in Central America and South America.

China seeks to expand its influence in those regions, probably with their proximity to the United States in mind. It appears that Beijing is encouraging other countries to cut ties with Taiwan by stressing potential economic benefits gained by closer ties with China.