China–Nicaragua relations
[1][2] During the Cold War, Nicaragua only maintained formal diplomatic relations with the Republic of China (Taiwan).[3] The Nicaraguan government, which was led by Daniel Ortega, first established formal relations with China in 1985,[2] and both countries soon opened resident embassies in their respective capitals.[4] In spite of this, China supplied arms to the rebel Contras to bolster ties with the United States and counter Soviet influence in Central America.[5] Ortega was defeated in the 1990 Nicaraguan general election by Violeta Chamorro, who declared the restoration of diplomatic relations with Taiwan.[7] Additionally, Nicaragua shut down its consulate before the transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong, which was established during British rule.