Paraguay reaffirms Taiwan ties after Beijing asked it to sever relations

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña reaffirmed his country’s ties with Taiwan on Friday, declaring the relationship “highly valued” during a ceremony in Taipei, a day after Beijing asked the South American nation to sever diplomatic relations with the island.

Speaking at a military honors event outside Taiwan’s presidential office on May 8, Peña said the ceremony symbolized the sides’ “unwavering determination” to deepen their partnership, according to an interpreter. He said Paraguay would continue to support Taiwan and promote a bilateral strategic partnership grounded in shared values, including democracy, freedom and human rights.

“Paraguay highly values the relationship,” the interpreter quoted him as saying. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te thanked Peña and Paraguay’s government for speaking out for Taiwan and for firmly supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Paraguay is the only country in South America — and one of 12 worldwide — that recognizes Taiwan.

Beijing considers Taiwan its own territory and in recent years has intensified efforts to draw away Taipei’s diplomatic allies while increasing military pressure around the island. Peña’s visit and public statements underscored Paraguay’s intention to maintain its current diplomatic stance even as Beijing seeks to reduce Taiwan’s international space.