Paraguay to Host Taiwan President, Likely Triggering U.S. Transit and China's Displeasure

Paraguay is gearing up to welcome Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te next month, according to President Santiago Pena. This visit will likely include transit stops in the United States, a move that is expected to draw strong disapproval from Beijing.

Paraguay stands as one of only a dozen countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, and the sole one in South America. Trips by Taiwanese presidents to Central and South America typically involve stopovers in the United States, which are often the most significant part of the journey due to the U.S.'s role as Taiwan's primary international supporter and arms provider.

President Pena announced Lai's upcoming visit at a bilateral investment conference held in Paraguay's capital. He stated that they are eagerly preparing to receive President Lai in approximately a month. The conference was also attended by Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung.

Additionally, Belize is scheduled to host Lai during his planned regional visit, as confirmed by a government official, although a specific date was not provided. Taiwan maintains a limited number of allies in Latin America and the Caribbean, with several having switched their allegiance in recent years to establish ties with China, which views Taiwan as a province.

President Pena emphasized that this visit demonstrates the ability of smaller nations to become significant global players. Taiwan's presidential office has refrained from commenting, stating that any announcements will be made at the appropriate time, as is customary.

Lai has yet to visit the United States since the beginning of the year. However, he did transit through Hawaii and Guam during a Pacific visit late last year. The U.S. State Department has not yet commented on the possibility of a transit stop next month.

China consistently opposes any interactions between Taiwan and the United States and regularly condemns U.S. stopovers by Taiwanese presidents. Taiwan's government rejects China's claims and asserts its right to establish relationships with other countries and engage internationally.