By Francis Tuschek, Staff Writer
President William Lai welcomed Paraguayan Senate President Basilio Gustavo Nunez Gimenez yesterday as he visited to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation with Taiwan.
Nunez, who arrived with a delegation on Monday for a five-day visit, referred to Paraguay as “not only a friend, but also a partner.” He emphasized that this trip was significant as it was his first since becoming Senate president in July, aimed at reaffirming Paraguay’s commitment to their diplomatic ties.
Taiwan and Paraguay have maintained formal relations since 1957, with Paraguay being one of the 12 countries that officially recognize Taiwan and its only ally in South America.
During the meeting at the Presidential Office in Taipei, Nunez expressed Paraguay’s intention to collaborate with Taiwan for mutual prosperity and reiterated support for the freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. He also voiced opposition to escalating hostilities in the region and highlighted the need to respect national sovereignty and uphold human rights.
Lai expressed gratitude to Paraguayan President Santiago Pena and his government for backing Taiwan’s participation in the international community, particularly during the recent UN General Assembly discussions.
He noted the positive outcomes of cooperation between Taiwan and Paraguay in fields such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and women’s empowerment, and expressed eagerness to continue pursuing mutually beneficial projects.
Nunez was accompanied by Paraguayan senators Derlis Hernan Maidana Zarza, Patrick Paul Kemper Thiede, and Sergio Roberto Rojas Sosa, as reported by the Presidential Office.
In a separate matter, Taiwan and Paraguay have re-signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to enhance tourism cooperation. The LOI was signed in Taipei on Monday by Tourism Administration Director-General Chou Yung-hui and Paraguayan counterpart H.E. Angie Duarte de Mellilo, marking the first agreement on tourism since the COVID-19 pandemic.
This renewed LOI builds on the original signed in 2018, focusing on fostering digital, sustainable, and inclusive development within the tourism sector, as stated by the Taiwan tourism agency. The signing ceremony was attended by Paraguay’s Ambassador to Taiwan, Carlos Fleitas.
Duarte’s visit, which began on October 31 and concluded on Tuesday, included her participation in the 2024 Taipei International Travel Fair and tours of attractions such as Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area and National Taichung Theater.
