TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — China said it aims to deepen relations with nations in the Caribbean and Latin America, where Taiwan notably has the largest concentration of allies.

On Monday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping (習近平) met with Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada, a former ally of Taiwan, reported Reuters. Grenada affirmed its adherence to the “one-China principle” and said Beijing’s “sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected,” according to Chinese state media Xinhua. 

During an official week-long visit, Mitchell said relations with China have greatly benefited Grenada. Xinhua cited Xi as saying China is willing to continue providing resources to Grenada and other Caribbean nations to boost their development.

Seven of Taiwan’s remaining 12 allies are in the Caribbean and Latin American region. In 1985, Grenada switched diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China. 

Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) has shared plans to retain allies through diplomatic engagement and technological incentives. However, Taiwanese officials are concerned that Chinese economic power and political pressure will lure allies away.