Taiwan welcomes Paraguay leader as China ramps up pressure

Taiwan welcomed Paraguay President Santiago Pena on Friday with a military parade and red carpet ceremony, underscoring the democratic island’s only remaining diplomatic ties in South America. Pena, leading a delegation of officials and business representatives, called Taiwan a ‘fundamental partner’ and reaffirmed Paraguay’s commitment to supporting the self-governed island amid China’s isolation efforts. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has systematically stripped the island of its diplomatic allies, leaving only 12 remaining. During his visit, Pena met with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, who thanked Paraguay for its international advocacy on Taiwan’s behalf. Lai highlighted shared values of democracy, freedom, and human rights, while Pena condemned China’s military and economic pressure, asserting Taiwan’s right to engage freely with other nations. The two countries signed agreements on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, cybersecurity cooperation, and an AI and computing infrastructure investment project. Pena’s trip follows Lai’s recent visit to Eswatini, Taiwan’s sole African ally, which was disrupted after China pressured neighboring countries to revoke overflight permits. Taiwan accused China of applying ‘intense pressure’ to Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar, forcing Lai to use the Eswatini king’s plane instead. This incident highlights Beijing’s efforts to limit Taiwan’s diplomatic maneuverability. The visit also comes after Paraguay announced in July 2025 that Lai would visit the country the following month, though U.S. transit permissions reportedly delayed plans. Taiwan’s foreign ministry denied claims of a U.S. blockade, stating Lai’s last overseas trip in November 2024 included a stop in Guam. The ongoing tensions reflect broader geopolitical struggles as China seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically while the island strengthens ties with like-minded nations.