President Santiago Peña celebrated on Sunday the 69th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Paraguay and Taiwan, highlighting the "solid alliance" between the two countries. In a post on the social media platform X, Peña stated that the relationship is "a true example of cooperation and mutual respect" and reaffirmed the commitment to continue working together for development and prosperity.
Vice President Pedro Alliana and Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued commemorative messages, emphasizing shared democratic values. The Taiwanese Embassy in Asunción responded to President Peña, thanking him for the support and highlighting 69 years of friendship built on mutual respect and a common vision for development.
Paraguay is the only country in South America and one of only twelve in the world that maintains official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a bond established on July 12, 1957. This position persists despite diplomatic pressure from China, which seeks to isolate the island, and despite voices within Paraguay that advocate for a rapprochement with Beijing.
Bilateral cooperation focuses on areas such as technology, higher education, health, security, and trade. Flagship projects include the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University (UPTP) and the expansion of the Hospital Information System (HIS). In trade, Taiwan has become the main market for Paraguayan pork, absorbing over 90% of exports in the first half of 2026, and is a crucial destination for beef.
Looking ahead, the bilateral agenda includes attracting Taiwanese investment in high-tech sectors, developing renewable energy, and fostering innovation, with a recent agreement to create a regional technology development center focused on artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure in Paraguay.