Paraguay Expels Chinese Envoy Over Taiwan Diplomatic Pressure

Paraguay expelled Chinese envoy Xu Wei for attempting to persuade lawmakers to sever ties with Taiwan. This action heightened tensions amid China’s efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically. Paraguay remains one of the few nations to recognize Taiwan despite increased pressure from China, which has successfully swayed several Latin American countries to abandon their support for the self-governing island.

On Thursday, the government of Paraguay dismissed a Chinese envoy, Xu Wei, from the country, accusing him of meddling in its internal affairs. The decision followed Xu’s unannounced visit to the Paraguayan Congress where he encouraged lawmakers to sever ties with Taiwan, which Paraguay has recognized as an independent nation since 1957. The Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared Xu persona non grata and ordered him to leave within 24 hours, heightening diplomatic tensions amidst China’s ongoing campaign to isolate Taiwan internationally.

This incident comes at a time when China’s influence in Latin America is rising, as several nations in the region, including Honduras and Panama, have shifted their recognition from Taiwan to Beijing in recent years. During his visit, Xu stressed the benefits of establishing diplomatic relations with China, asserting that Paraguay should make a prompt decision between aligning with China or maintaining its relationship with Taiwan. If Paraguay were to join China’s fold, Xu suggested that it could unlock vast trade opportunities and other advantages that would significantly benefit the nation.

Paraguay has been a steadfast ally of Taiwan, being the only country in South America to officially recognize its sovereignty. This long-standing friendship has persisted despite China’s increasing efforts to diplomatically isolate Taiwan by urging nations to adhere to its one-China policy, which prohibits simultaneous recognition of both entities. The Chinese government’s efforts have led several Latin American countries to sever ties with Taiwan in favor of stronger relations with China, which boasts significant economic leverage in the region through extensive trade partnerships.

In summary, Paraguay’s expulsion of Chinese envoy Xu Wei underscores the delicate balance nations must maintain amidst the pressures exerted by China over diplomatic recognitions. This incident highlights Paraguay’s commitment to Taiwan and serves as a firm rebuttal to China’s advances, emphasizing the importance of established international friendships over potential economic gains. The unfolding scenarios reflect broader geopolitical dynamics between China and Taiwan that continue to influence Latin America’s diplomatic landscape.

Original Source: apnews.com