China has urged Paraguay to make what it called the “correct political decision” regarding its relations with Taiwan, following remarks by Paraguayan First Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies Hugo Meza, who recently called for “extensive discussions” on establishing diplomatic and economic ties with China.
Responding to Meza’s comments, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that maintaining so-called diplomatic ties with Taiwan’s regional authorities is “a dead-end with no future.” Guo emphasised that the one-China principle is a universal consensus across the international community and a fundamental norm of global relations.
“Adhering to the one-China principle is a matter of international justice, aligned with the will of the people and the trend of the times,” Guo stated, urging the Paraguayan government to act in the fundamental and long-term interests of its citizens.
He further called on “a very few governments,” including Paraguay, to recognise the prevailing international consensus, listen to the voices of their people, and avoid isolating themselves from the global community.
The renewed exchange follows Meza’s earlier remarks in August, when he said Paraguay was “wasting time with Taiwan” and called for a national debate on normalising relations with Beijing, arguing that Paraguay should no longer act as a “beggar country” seeking aid from Taipei.
At the time, Guo Jiakun said Meza’s statements “reflect what many in Paraguay strongly want,” adding that more Paraguayans now recognise the importance of aligning with China and ending their country’s diplomatic isolation.
Paraguay remains one of the few countries that maintains official ties with Taiwan, but growing domestic debate indicates a possible shift in foreign policy amid evolving regional dynamics.
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