Paraguay President Santiago Peña Arrives in Taiwan for State Visit
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña arrived at Taoyuan International Airport on Thursday morning, May 7, leading a high-level delegation for a four-day state visit that underscores the enduring diplomatic bond between the two nations. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung personally greeted the delegation, which includes Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez and Minister of Industry and Commerce Marco Riquelme. President Lai Ching-te is set to host Peña with full military honors at the Presidential Office and confer upon him the Order of Brilliant Jade, Taiwan's highest civilian honor.
The visit carries particular symbolic weight following a New York Times report exposing Chinese bribery and cyberattack campaigns aimed at pressuring Paraguay to sever ties with Taiwan. Peña's steadfast commitment — this marks his second visit since taking office — sends a clear signal that Asunción will not be bullied into abandoning Taipei. Flags of both nations lined Ketagalan Boulevard outside the Presidential Office in welcome.
Beyond diplomatic symbolism, the visit has a strong economic dimension. Peña brought 39 business representatives with him for an investment seminar aimed at deepening commercial ties. In an interview with CNA, Peña highlighted natural synergies: "Paraguay is a green energy powerhouse while Taiwan is the world leader in advanced chip manufacturing. If we combine Taiwan's technology with Paraguay's energy supply, it would be a perfect match." Paraguay's abundant hydroelectric capacity and Taiwan's semiconductor expertise represent a complementary pairing both sides are eager to explore.
Peña also received an honorary doctorate from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim in attendance. The university praised his leadership in advancing Paraguay's technological education and his commitment to the Taiwan-Paraguay partnership. The visit runs through May 10 and includes stops at Taiwanese industrial parks and cultural sites, with both governments expected to sign cooperation agreements in agriculture, technology, and education.