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Peña highlights 'solid' friendship with Taiwan based on freedom and democracy
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Elections & Politics

Peña highlights 'solid' friendship with Taiwan based on freedom and democracy

From ABC Color · (1h ago) Spanish Positive tone

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Paraguayan President Santiago Peña highlighted the "solid" friendship between Paraguay and Taiwan, built on freedom and democracy.
  • Peña received an honorary doctorate from Taiwan's National Science and Technology University, emphasizing shared values and tangible cooperation.
  • The visit reaffirms the long-standing alliance between Paraguay and Taiwan, with Paraguay being Taiwan's sole South American diplomatic ally.

President Santiago Peña's state visit to Taiwan has underscored the deep and enduring bond between Paraguay and the Republic of China (Taiwan). During a ceremony where he received an honorary doctorate from the National Science and Technology University, Peña articulated a vision of friendship that transcends mere diplomatic formality, emphasizing shared foundations in liberty, democracy, and a commitment to hard work. This perspective aligns with Paraguay's long-held diplomatic stance and its strategic positioning in South America.

Paraguay and Taiwan share a friendship built on a solid foundation: democracy, freedom, trust in institutions, and the dignity of hard work.

— Santiago PeñaDescribing the basis of the relationship between Paraguay and Taiwan during a ceremony in Taiwan.

Peña's remarks highlight that the relationship is not just symbolic but is manifested in concrete actions and opportunities for mutual benefit. He specifically pointed to Taiwan's role as a decisive partner in Paraguay's transformation towards becoming a nation driven by talent, technology, clean energy, and innovation. This framing positions Taiwan not just as an ally, but as a crucial catalyst for Paraguay's development and modernization, reflecting a national aspiration for progress and technological advancement.

The visit also occurs amidst heightened geopolitical tensions, with China urging Paraguay to sever ties with Taiwan. Peña's reaffirmation of the alliance, which dates back to 1957, is a clear statement of Paraguay's sovereign choice and its commitment to its diplomatic partners. As the only South American nation maintaining formal relations with Taiwan, Paraguay's steadfastness is particularly significant, offering a counter-narrative to China's increasing diplomatic pressure on Taipei.

The relationship between the two goes far beyond diplomatic formality and is manifested in concrete actions, tangible achievements, and real opportunities for both nations.

— Santiago PeñaHighlighting the practical outcomes and depth of the cooperation between Paraguay and Taiwan.

From a Paraguayan perspective, this relationship is vital. It provides access to technological expertise, educational opportunities, and economic cooperation that are distinct from what might be available through engagement with mainland China. The emphasis on shared democratic values also resonates deeply within Paraguay, reinforcing its own national identity and political principles. This visit, therefore, is not just a diplomatic courtesy but a strategic affirmation of Paraguay's foreign policy orientation and its belief in a future built on trusted partnerships.

Taiwan and Paraguay share a close and firm partnership.

— Hsiao Bi-khimCommenting on the strong association between Taiwan and Paraguay during the event.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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