Paraguay Expels Chinese Envoy for Lobbying Against Taiwan Relations

Paraguay has expelled Chinese envoy Xu Wei after he urged lawmakers to prioritize relations with China over Taiwan. This expulsion highlights ongoing regional tensions as countries in Latin America increasingly shift partnerships due to Chinese diplomatic maneuvers. Paraguay remains one of the few nations that recognize Taiwan, creating a challenging political landscape amid pressures to change allegiances.

In a significant diplomatic incident, Paraguay has expelled Chinese envoy Xu Wei, citing his inappropriate political interference during his visit to the country. The Paraguayan Foreign Ministry announced the cancellation of Xu’s visa, declaring him persona non grata after he urged lawmakers to sever ties with Taiwan in favor of China during a visit to Congress. This expulsion highlights the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, particularly as Paraguay remains one of the few countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan amidst increasing Chinese influence in the region.

Xu Wei’s unexpected appearance at Paraguay’s Congress aimed at influencing lawmakers to shift allegiance from Taiwan to China, suggesting that establishing diplomatic ties with Beijing would enhance trade opportunities for Paraguay. He emphasized that the country faced a choice between maintaining relations with Taiwan or developing closer ties with China, claiming that trade relations with China would significantly benefit Paraguay economically. However, his actions were met with swift backlash from Taiwanese officials who accused him of meddling in domestic affairs.

Paraguay’s decision to expel the Chinese envoy is rooted in the larger geopolitical struggle between Taiwan and China for recognition and diplomatic ties. Taiwan, a self-governing island, is recognized by only a small number of countries, with Paraguay being the last supporter in South America. As China expands its influence in Latin America through trade agreements and economic incentives, many nations have opted to switch recognition from Taiwan to Beijing, increasing the pressure on Paraguay to reconsider its long-standing relationship with Taipei.

The expulsion of Xu Wei underscores the delicate diplomatic balance Paraguay must maintain while navigating increasing Chinese pressures to sever ties with Taiwan. Paraguay’s unique position as one of the last allies of Taiwan in South America may be further threatened if similar diplomatic maneuvers by China persist. This incident not only reflects bilateral tensions but also highlights the broader implications of China’s growing influence in Latin America and the continent’s response to such overtures.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com