Japan builds ties with Taiwan's last few diplomatic allies

TOKYO -- Japan is forging closer relationships with the few countries that maintain diplomatic ties with Taiwan, offering indirect support for their economies as a counterweight to China's push to expand its influence.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Tuesday met in Tokyo with President Bernardo Arevalo of Guatemala, which has the largest economy and population among the 12 countries that recognize Taiwan rather than China. That number has dropped from more than 20 in 2016 amid a diplomatic campaign by Beijing.