Taipei, Taiwan – On Tuesday, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) welcomed Basilio Gustavo Núñez Giménez, the President of the Paraguayan Senate, as he kicked off a five-day visit to Taiwan aimed at enhancing the long-standing relationship between the two countries. The Paraguayan Senate president, accompanied by a high-level delegation, arrived in Taiwan on Monday.
During their meeting, Núñez expressed Paraguay’s unwavering support for Taiwan, calling the island “not only a friend but also a partner.” He noted that his visit marked the first time he had visited Taiwan since assuming office as Senate president in July 2024. This trip, he emphasized, was a reaffirmation of Paraguay’s dedication to deepening bilateral ties and cooperation with Taiwan.
Taiwan and Paraguay’s Strong Diplomatic Partnership
Taiwan and Paraguay have maintained formal diplomatic relations since 1957. As one of the few remaining countries that officially recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state, Paraguay holds a unique and vital position in Taiwan’s diplomatic efforts. Paraguay is Taiwan’s sole ally in South America and one of the 12 countries worldwide that continue to officially recognize the Republic of China (Taiwan).
In his remarks, Senate President Núñez reaffirmed his country’s support for Taiwan’s right to sovereignty and emphasized the importance of respecting the principle of freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. “Paraguay strongly believes in peaceful cooperation and opposes any actions that escalate hostility in the region,” he stated.
The Paraguayan Senate president also expressed a desire to continue collaborating on initiatives that would benefit both nations, specifically in the areas of trade, education, agriculture, healthcare, and human rights. He underscored the need for continued respect for national sovereignty in the region and globally.
Taiwan’s Continued Collaboration with Paraguay
In response to Núñez’s remarks, President Lai thanked Paraguayan President Santiago Peña and the government of Paraguay for their continued support of Taiwan on the global stage. Lai noted Paraguay’s assistance in advocating for Taiwan’s participation in international forums, particularly highlighting the United Nations General Assembly debate in September 2024, where Paraguay’s support for Taiwan’s inclusion was prominently noted.
Taiwan and Paraguay have also achieved significant results in their cooperative efforts across multiple sectors. President Lai pointed to the ongoing collaborations in healthcare, where Taiwan has supported Paraguay’s medical programs, as well as agriculture and women’s empowerment initiatives.
“These projects have been mutually beneficial,” Lai said, “and we look forward to expanding these efforts in the future.”
Paraguayan Senate Delegation Attends Key Meeting with Taiwanese Leadership
Along with Senate President Núñez, the Paraguayan delegation included several key figures, including Senators Derlis Hernán Maidana Zarza, Patrick Paul Kemper Thiede, and Sergio Roberto Rojas Sosa. These senators are integral to fostering Paraguay’s diplomatic relations with Taiwan and supporting the ongoing projects between the two nations.
The meeting, held at the Presidential Office in Taipei, was a crucial step in further solidifying the partnership between Taiwan and Paraguay. The continued cooperation between the two countries is seen as pivotal for both nations, especially in the context of growing regional challenges and the global political landscape.
Taiwan and Paraguay: Shared Goals for the Future
Looking to the future, President Lai emphasized Taiwan’s strong commitment to further enhancing the relationship with Paraguay. He stressed that Taiwan was keen to build on the existing cooperation to create new opportunities for growth, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development and sustainable agricultural practices. He also noted that Taiwan would continue to support Paraguay’s efforts in gender equality and empowering women in various sectors.
The collaboration between Taiwan and Paraguay goes beyond just economic and diplomatic ties. The countries have worked together to improve people-to-people exchanges and deepen cultural understanding. Both nations have expressed the desire to keep their relationship strong and grow even more in the coming years, despite the pressures of international politics.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
| Key Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Visit Purpose | Strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation |
| Taiwan-Paraguay Diplomatic Relations | Established in 1957, Paraguay is Taiwan’s only South American ally |
| Core Areas of Cooperation | Education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, women’s empowerment |
| Paraguay’s Support for Taiwan | Advocates for Taiwan’s international participation, including in the United Nations |
| Taiwan’s Future Plans | Continue collaborative projects and expand mutual interests in various sectors |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is Paraguayan Senate President Basilio Núñez visiting Taiwan?
Núñez’s visit aims to reinforce the strong diplomatic and cooperative ties between Taiwan and Paraguay. This is his first trip to Taiwan since taking office in July 2024, and it underscores Paraguay’s ongoing commitment to Taiwan’s sovereignty and mutual collaboration.
2. What areas do Taiwan and Paraguay collaborate on?
Taiwan and Paraguay work together in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment. Both countries have benefitted from joint initiatives aimed at improving these areas.
3. How does Paraguay support Taiwan in international forums?
Paraguay has been a consistent supporter of Taiwan’s right to participate in international organizations such as the United Nations. During the 2024 UN General Assembly, Paraguay supported Taiwan’s inclusion, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic support.
4. What was discussed regarding the Taiwan Strait during the meeting?
Senate President Núñez reaffirmed Paraguay’s stance on the freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait and its opposition to any escalation of hostilities in the region, emphasizing the importance of peaceful cooperation and respect for sovereignty.
5. What future plans do Taiwan and Paraguay have for cooperation?
Both nations plan to expand existing collaborations in areas like sustainable agriculture, infrastructure development, and gender equality. Taiwan also looks forward to strengthening its partnerships in various sectors for mutual benefit.
