Paraguay President to Visit Taiwan Amid China Pressure
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña is set to visit Taiwan from May 7, 2026, in a high-profile reaffirmation of diplomatic ties as China ramps up pressure on Paraguay — Taiwan’s last remaining ally in South America.
Taiwan’s Diplomatic Lifeline
Taiwan maintains formal diplomatic relations with only a handful of countries worldwide, and Paraguay has been a steadfast ally for decades. President Peña is bringing a senior government and business delegation, and multiple cooperation agreements are expected to be signed during the visit.
China’s Counter-Pressure
Beijing has intensified its campaign to persuade Paraguay to switch recognition to China, dangling trade incentives and investment offers. China’s foreign minister has also separately told US Secretary of State Rubio that Taiwan remains the biggest risk in US-China relations.
Key Highlights
- Paraguay is Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in South America
- President Peña visits Taipei starting May 7 with business delegation
- Multiple bilateral cooperation agreements to be signed
- China is escalating pressure on Paraguay over trade and investment enticements
- Taiwan’s diplomatic isolation has intensified under Chinese pressure in recent years