Paraguay's Diplomatic Tightrope: Taiwan Ties Under China's Scrutiny

China has sharply escalated its rhetoric against Paraguayan President Santiago Pena, condemning his recent visit to Taiwan.

Accusing him and his colleagues of acting as 'pawns to separatist forces' with 'ulterior motives,' China contends Paraguay's formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, maintained by only 12 countries, are based on contentious grounds. Despite Paraguay's claim of a relationship rooted in freedom and democracy, domestic debate simmers with some advocating for a pivot to Beijing, citing limited economic benefits. China's foreign ministry insists a large majority of Paraguayans support formal relations with China, though these claims are unspecified in their origin.

Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for China, criticized Paraguayan politicians for supporting Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, suggesting they ignore widespread public opinion and risk global condemnation. Paraguay's foreign ministry has yet to comment.

China persists in asserting Taiwan as its province, countered by firm rejections from Taiwan's government led by Lai.

(With inputs from agencies.)