Paraguay’s Foreign Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to Taiwan during a visit to Taipei, stating it will not sever ties in favor of China despite significant trade relationships. The minister expressed openness to relations with China without conditions that would compromise its support for Taiwan, underlining Paraguay’s intention to preserve its diplomatic identity.
During a recent visit to Taipei, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister, Ruben Dario Ramirez Lezcano, reaffirmed his country’s steadfast commitment to Taiwan, which remains one of its twelve diplomatic allies globally. Despite the robust trade relationship Paraguay maintains with China—valued at approximately $5 billion—he clearly stated that Paraguay has no intentions of severing its diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China. Ramirez Lezcano emphasized Paraguay’s openness to forge diplomatic, consular, or commercial relations with China but underscored that such agreements would not come at the expense of existing ties with Taiwan.
At a press conference, he reiterated that the Paraguayan government is determined to preserve its relationship with Taiwan irrespective of external pressures, including those from the United States. He remarked, “We are very committed,” emphasizing that this decision was independent of U.S. influence. Ramirez Lezcano’s remarks come amid China’s growing influence in South America, where its trade with the region has surged to nearly $500 billion as of 2023.
During his visit, the minister also signed a reciprocal visa-free agreement for citizens of both nations and expressed interests in enhancing investment opportunities for Paraguay’s agricultural products, such as beef, soybeans, and corn. Furthermore, he conveyed intentions to strengthen relations with the incoming U.S. administration, particularly under Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio. President Santiago Peña, who has taken a firm stance on maintaining ties with Taiwan, has faced increasing pressure as countries like Honduras have shifted their allegiance to China recently.
The relationship between Taiwan and Paraguay is an illustrative example of the challenges faced by small nations navigating international diplomatic waters, particularly in the face of China’s growing global influence. Notably, Paraguay is the last South American country to formally recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state amidst a trend of nations severing ties with Taiwan in favor of establishing relations with China. The historical context stems from the 1949 Chinese civil war, which resulted in a division, with Taiwan operating as a self-ruled entity. China requires countries that wish to establish or maintain diplomatic relations with it to endorse its claim that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, which places nations like Paraguay in a difficult position, balancing their trade relations with China while honoring longstanding partnerships with Taiwan.
In conclusion, Paraguay’s unwavering support for Taiwan amidst mounting global pressures highlights its dedication to maintaining a distinct diplomatic identity. The recent statements from Foreign Minister Ruben Dario Ramirez Lezcano affirm the country’s commitment to its alliance with Taiwan, despite the significant economic ties it has developed with China. As international dynamics evolve, Paraguay’s position serves as a critical example of the complexities that small nations encounter in the geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: apnews.com
