China pressed Paraguay to switch recognition from Taiwan to itself during the COVID-19 pandemic, leveraging vaccine access. Paraguay rejected the offer and managed to secure vaccines from Chile. Diplomatic relations were complicated further by the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat due to interference.
China is actively trying to persuade Paraguay to shift its diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to itself, as highlighted by former Japanese ambassador to Paraguay, Yoshie Nakatani. Nakatani noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Beijing attempted to leverage vaccine access to encourage Asuncion’s alignment. Specifically, while Paraguay faced a low vaccination rate, China offered vaccine supplies contingent on the country’s diplomatic switch, which was firmly rejected.
Beijing’s efforts included pressuring Paraguay’s provincial governors to purchase Chinese vaccines, yet these attempts were thwarted by state-only purchasing policies established by Asuncion. The situation escalated with public protests against these policies, prompting diplomatic representatives to monitor the protests closely in light of potential governmental changes in Paraguay. Ultimately, Paraguay secured vaccines from Chile, successfully navigating the political pressures from China.
Nakatani coordinated with Taiwanese and U.S. ambassadors to find solutions that would prevent Paraguay from siding with Beijing. During this period, while Taiwan could not directly supply vaccines, it offered medical equipment and oxygen tanks to assist. The U.S. also contributed by providing essential medical supplies and aid, showcasing a united front against China’s influence.
Additionally, Nakatani recounted the expulsion of Chinese diplomat Xu Wei, who was declared persona non grata in Paraguay due to his interference in the country’s internal matters. Xu had visited Paraguay ostensibly for a UNESCO meeting but used the opportunity to advocate for a shift away from Taiwan. Nakatani emphasized Paraguay’s authority in revoking Xu’s visa based on his actions violating the purpose of his visit. Paraguay remains a significant ally of Taiwan as the only South American country officially recognizing it.
In summary, China has made extensive efforts to compel Paraguay to recognize it over Taiwan, particularly during the pandemic through vaccine diplomacy. However, Paraguay resisted these pressures, receiving assistance from Taiwan and the U.S. Expulsion of a Chinese diplomat over interference underscores the complex relations between these nations. Paraguay continues its formal recognition of Taiwan despite ongoing diplomatic challenges.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
