China says Honduran leader to visit 'as soon as possible'

The visit was also confirmed in a tweet by Honduras's foreign ministry, which likewise did not provide a date.

"China welcomes President Castro to visit China as soon as possible and to jointly draw up the blueprint for bilateral relations with President Xi Jinping," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a regular briefing.

The Honduran foreign ministry said the visit would see the two sides sign "auspicious agreements between both countries".

Long one of Taiwan's few remaining diplomatic partners, Honduras this month cut off ties and recognised China.

The switch cuts to 13 the number of countries that still diplomatically recognise Taiwan, which has lost several Latin American allies in recent years.

China considers the self-ruled, democratic island a part of its territory to be retaken one day.

Under its "One China" policy, it does not allow countries to recognise both Beijing and Taipei.

Beijing is now "willing to strengthen high-level exchanges with Honduras, continuously enhance political mutual trust and mutual understanding, and jointly promote exchanges and cooperation", Mao said Thursday.