Paraguay urged to recognize one-China principle

Beijing has blasted Paraguayan President Santiago Pena’s recently concluded visit to China’s Taiwan region, warning that “rejecting the one-China principle will only isolate oneself from the international community”.

Pena visited the island from Thursday to Sunday, met with Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te on Friday in Taipei, and signed several so-called cooperation documents.

The Paraguayan leader claimed that the South American country supported Taiwan’s “participation in international multilateral systems”, that “the international community should recognize Taiwan”, and that Taiwan does not need to worry about changes in bilateral ties.

In response, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that “China firmly opposes and condemns such moves made by the Paraguayan side” and that “the wheels of history wait for no one”.

“There is but one China in the world. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, and the one-China principle is a basic norm governing international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community,” Guo said.

“Over the years, we have heard time and again the strong call of people from various sectors in Paraguay to develop relations with China,” he added.

Guo cited a poll in Paraguay showing that nearly 90 percent of respondents supported establishing diplomatic ties with China.

“This fully demonstrates that establishing diplomatic relations with China serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the Paraguayan people, and that colluding with the Taiwan authorities wins no support,” he said.

The spokesman said relevant Paraguayan political figures had not only turned a blind eye to this, but had also blatantly visited Taiwan to endorse Lai Ching-te and his followers in defiance of global criticism, willingly serving as chess pieces for “Taiwan independence” separatist forces.

“It is apparent to all whether this is truly for the benefit of the Paraguayan people or driven by ulterior motives,” Guo said.

At a daily briefing last week in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian urged Paraguay’s authorities to stand on the right side of history at an early date and sever the so-called “diplomatic ties” with the Taiwan authorities.

On Tuesday, Guo said, “We urge the Paraguayan government to change course at an early date, see where the arc of history bends, follow the will of its people, and make the right political decision to recognize the one-China principle.” CHINA DAILY