In Brussels, Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano advocated that Paraguay and the European Union move toward a relationship with a strategic dimension, expanding cooperation beyond trade. He made the statement during a session of the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (EuroLat), held at the European Parliament.
According to the position presented by the foreign minister, the international situation requires “expanding alliances, building bridges and working with reliable partners.” He said Europe occupies a fundamental place in Paraguay’s foreign policy and described the European Union as a reliable partner in areas including security, the fight against transnational organized crime, trade, investment and development.
Ramírez Lezcano also highlighted the Mercosur–European Union Agreement, which the sources say was signed in January this year, as a turning point in relations between the two blocs. He said the agreement should not be seen only as a trade instrument, but as an opportunity to bring two regions linked by historical ties and shared values closer together, stimulate investment and strengthen integration.
“This is also the right time to move toward a strategic dimension,” the foreign minister said. In presenting this position, the minister advocated using the biregional agreement as a basis for expanding political dialogue and cooperation on issues that directly affect the countries of Mercosur and Europe.
The minister also said Paraguay seeks to present itself as a reliable country, with macroeconomic stability, clean and abundant energy, and competitive conditions for investment. In his assessment, Europe would be a natural partner to accompany this process.
During the visit, Ramírez Lezcano met with Gabriel Mato, a member of the European Parliament and president of EuroLat. They discussed the Latin American agenda and other matters of biregional interest.
The foreign minister advocated addressing any differences through frank and constructive dialogue, with respect for national realities and the sovereign decisions of states. EuroLat was presented as a forum for bringing the societies of the two regions closer together and building consensus in an increasingly complex international environment.