Paraguayan President-elect Santiago Peña reaffirmed his support for Taiwan during his official visit to the country.
He met with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and expressed admiration for Taiwan’s economic and social development.
The visit coincided with the 66th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Paraguay, the only remaining ally of Taiwan in South America.
Both leaders exchanged gifts and emphasized the friendship between their nations.
President Tsai highlighted the cooperation projects between Taiwan and Paraguay in fields such as education, health, business development, and industry.
She expressed satisfaction with the scholarship program for Paraguayan students and the upcoming graduation of the first class from the Taiwan-Paraguay Technological University.
Tsai thanked President-elect Peña for choosing Taiwan as his first destination in Asia after being elected.
Peña, in turn, thanked Taiwan for their hospitality and pledged to strengthen bilateral relations.
He declared his commitment to stand by Taiwan for the next five years, emphasizing that it is a firm commitment to the Taiwanese people.
Peña expressed his admiration for Taiwan’s development and its economic and social model, stating his desire to emulate it in Paraguay.
He invited President Tsai to visit Paraguay in 2024 after her current term ends.
It is worth noting that Paraguay is one of the 13 countries that still maintain official relations with Taiwan.
China considers Taiwan a rebel province and urges countries with ties to Taiwan to align with its position.
However, Paraguay’s reaffirmation of support for Taiwan demonstrates their ongoing alliance and friendship.