May 17, 2016
No. 118
Paraguay President Horacio Cartes will lead a delegation to Taiwan from May 18 to 20 to attend the inauguration of the 14th-term ROC president and vice president and oversee a briefing on investment opportunities in Paraguay for Taiwanese enterprises. His last state visit was in October 2014, when he attended the ROC National Day celebrations.
After becoming a successful businessman, President Cartes became involved in politics in 2009, paving the way for his election as president on April 21, 2013. Under his leadership, Paraguay has built up its infrastructure, expanded economic and trade relations, attracted foreign investment, upgraded public services, and reduced the government’s fiscal burden, creating a win-win-win situation for the government, businesses, and people of Paraguay.
Since taking office, President Cartes has also broadened his country’s diplomatic horizons, such as by securing observer status for Paraguay in the Pacific Alliance (Alianza del Pacífico) comprising Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Mexico. Under his leadership, Paraguay has also held important international meetings, including a general assembly meeting of the Organization of American States (Organización de los Estados Americanos). All these developments have advanced Paraguay’s international status.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1957, Paraguay has been one of Taiwan’s most close allies in South America. Next year will mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, highlighted by the strong friendship between Taiwan and Paraguay and frequent high-level visits. Paraguay has staunchly supported Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization, International Civil Aviation Organization, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and other international platforms. (E)