Background of the Incident

In a dramatic turn of events on Thursday, Paraguay expelled a Chinese envoy, Xu Wei, after he allegedly meddled in the nation’s internal affairs by pressuring lawmakers to sever ties with Taiwan. Xu, a high-ranking Chinese diplomat in Latin America, was given just 24 hours to exit the country.

Official Statement from Paraguay

Paraguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a straightforward statement revoking Xu’s visa, declaring him persona non grata due to his interference in domestic matters. This incident occurred during Xu’s visit for an annual UNESCO meeting, which he notably skipped to attend the Paraguayan Congress instead.

Controversial Remarks

At the Congress in Asunción, Xu sparked controversy by pushing for Paraguay to abandon Taiwan, the self-governing democratic island that Beijing claims as territory. Currently, Paraguay is the only country in South America — and one of only 12 worldwide — that recognizes Taiwan as a sovereign nation, maintaining a long-standing diplomatic relationship that has withstood pressures from Beijing to shift allegiances.

The Regional Context

In recent years, several Latin American countries, including Honduras, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and El Salvador, have cut ties with Taiwan in favor of China, which has a strict one-China policy requiring nations to choose between the two. From the modern Congress building in Asunción, partially funded by Taiwan, Xu emphasized China's eagerness to develop ties with Paraguay but insisted the initiative must come from Paraguayan officials.

Remarks by Xu Wei

“It is either China or Taiwan,” he stated assertively. “I recommend that the government of Paraguay make a correct decision as soon as possible.” Xu's remarks raised eyebrows, especially as they came with promises of expanded trade along with 'thousands of other advantages,' enticing some lawmakers who argue that a diplomatic shift could benefit Paraguay's agricultural exports in the long run.

Implications of Chinese Influence