China and Nicaragua resumed diplomatic relations on Friday, a day after the latter severed its "diplomatic relations" with the Taiwan region.

The two countries have signed the Joint Communique on the Resumption of Diplomatic Relations Between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Nicaragua, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Friday.

According to the communique, the two governments agree to develop friendly relations between the two countries on the basis of the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality, mutual benefit and peaceful coexistence.

"The two governments have decided to recognize each other and resume diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level, effective from the date of signature of this communique," the spokesperson said.

Noting that Nicaragua is an important country in Central America, the spokesperson said that China highly appreciates the country's decision in recognizing and committing to abide by the one-China principle.

There is but one China in the world and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, while Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, said the spokesperson.

"These facts are grounded in history and law, and represent a universally agreed norm governing international relations," the spokesperson added.

On the same day, Ma Xiaoguang, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said China appreciates Nicaragua's decision, saying that it follows the trend and supports China's reunification cause. 

China welcomes the few remaining "diplomatic countries" of Taiwan region to recognize the trend, he said.

"History and reality once again show that 'Taiwan independence' is no way out, and no one or any force can stop the complete reunification of the motherland and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," he added.