Paraguay Expels Chinese Envoy Xu Wei Over Urging Lawmakers to Sever Ties with Taiwan

Paraguay expelled a Chinese diplomat on Thursday, accusing him of meddling in its internal matters and urging the nation to sever ties with Taiwan. The envoy was ordered to leave within 24 hours. Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the visa revocation of Xu Wei, a senior Chinese diplomat in Latin America, declaring him persona non grata for his interference.

Xu Wei had skipped a UNESCO meeting to visit Paraguay's Congress in Asunción, where he stirred controversy by suggesting that Paraguay abandon its relationship with Taiwan. Taiwan is a self-governing island with 23 million people, which China claims as its territory. Paraguay remains the only South American country and one of just 12 globally that recognises Taiwan as a sovereign nation.

China's Diplomatic Pressure

China has been intensifying efforts to persuade countries to cut ties with Taiwan. In recent years, Honduras, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and El Salvador have switched allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing. China's one-China policy requires nations to choose between diplomatic relations with China or Taiwan.

During his visit to Congress, Xu Wei highlighted China's interest in establishing relations with Paraguay. He stated that it was up to Paraguayan officials to initiate this process. "It is either China or Taiwan," he said. "I recommend that the government of Paraguay make a correct decision as soon as possible."

Economic Incentives

Xu also mentioned potential trade benefits with China, including expanded markets for Paraguayan soybeans and beef. Some Paraguayan lawmakers believe that aligning with China could offer long-term economic advantages. China's trade with South America has surged in recent years, reaching nearly USD 500 billion by 2023, according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Taiwanese Embassy in Paraguay responded on social media platform X, criticising Xu Wei as an "infiltrator" attempting to disrupt the longstanding friendship between Paraguay and Taiwan, which began in 1957. This diplomatic incident underscores the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan on the global stage.

Paraguay's steadfast support for Taiwan remains significant amid increasing pressure from Beijing. The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics involving China, Taiwan, and countries maintaining diplomatic ties with both entities.