Paraguay has expelled a Chinese envoy for urging lawmakers to abandon Taiwan, citing interference in domestic affairs. Xu Wei’s visit coincided with an annual UNESCO meeting and sparked diplomatic tensions as Paraguay maintains its long-standing allegiance to Taiwan, despite China’s lobbying efforts. The incident emphasizes the challenges of diplomatic relations in a region where several countries have shifted alliances in favor of Beijing.
On Thursday, Paraguay expelled a Chinese diplomat following allegations of interference in its internal matters. The envoy, Xu Wei, who is a senior Chinese official overseeing relations with Latin America, was given a 24-hour notice to leave the country after he urged Paraguayan lawmakers to sever ties with Taiwan. This incident heightens the ongoing tension between Paraguay and China, highlighting the South American nation’s steadfast diplomatic relationship with Taiwan, which it recognizes as a sovereign state.
The diplomatic rift stems from Paraguay’s longstanding alliance with Taiwan, which recognizes only twelve nations worldwide as its sovereign counterpart, including Paraguay. In recent years, several Latin American countries have shifted their allegiance from Taiwan to China, driven by lucrative trade offers and the one-China policy. As China increasingly asserts its influence, it pressures nations to make difficult choices between maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan and embracing relations with Beijing.
The eviction of Xu Wei signals Paraguay’s firm stance on its commitment to Taiwan amid growing pressure from China. This event underscores the delicate balance of diplomatic relations in Latin America, where economic incentives often conflict with long-standing allegiances. Paraguay remains determined to uphold its partnership with Taiwan despite the increasing influence and promises of trade offered by China.
Original Source: apnews.com
