Paraguayan deputies hold outreach in Córdoba after consulate closure

Paraguayan deputies have organized a special service day in Córdoba, Argentina, to assist the large Paraguayan community there, following the government's decision to close the consulate in 2024. The initiative, led by deputies Arnaldo Valdez and Cleto Giménez, aimed to provide essential documentation and consular services to an estimated 30,000 Paraguayans residing in the city.

The event, held at the Polo de la Mujer, offered services including the renewal of identity cards, general consular assistance, and registration for the Permanent Civic Registry. The latter is a critical step for citizens wishing to exercise their right to vote from abroad in upcoming elections. The session ran from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with support from the Paraguayan House of Córdoba.

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The activity responds to a request from compatriots residing in Argentina and, particularly, in Córdoba, where it is estimated that around 30,000 Paraguayans live.

Deputy Arnaldo Valdez explained that the outreach was a direct response to requests from Paraguayan residents in Córdoba, who have faced significant difficulties accessing consular services since the closure of their consulate. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, cited budgetary reasons for shutting down the facility in 2024, leaving many without convenient access to necessary documentation.

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There is a high demand for documentation services, especially for the renewal of identity cards, due to the closure of the Paraguayan Consulate in that city, executed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in charge of Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, in 2024, for budgetary reasons.

The Department of Identification of the National Police was present to facilitate identity document services, while the Electoral Justice department assisted with voter registration. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also provided consular support, including assistance with passport renewals and other community needs. This collaborative effort underscores the deputies' commitment to serving their constituents abroad.

Deputy Valdez indicated that further outreach is planned, including a meeting in Buenos Aires with members of the Paraguayan community. This reflects a broader effort to maintain engagement and provide ongoing support to Paraguayans living overseas, building on similar initiatives from the previous year. The deputies emphasized the importance of bringing state services closer to citizens living abroad.

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It is important to continue these initiatives, bringing state services and institutions closer to Paraguayans living abroad.