A diplomatic row erupted when Paraguay kicked-out Chinese envoy for breaking visa terms: the official had arrived for a UNESCO event but got busy with different plans
The foreign ministry found that Xu Wei made un-authorized contacts with local politicians on dec-5 2023 (which was against his visa purpose) and gave him 24hrs to pack-up and leave. Taiwanʼs embassy stated that Xu tried to sneak-in and mess with their long-time friendship
Having diplomatic relations with China you can earn more save more lower your costs; there is no ʼandʼ option With China and Taiwan its just ʼorʼ: China or Taiwan
Xu Wei met with two pro-China lawmakers and pushed his agenda: switch sides from Taiwan to mainland China. His recorded speech at Congress showed clear goals - he talked about fixing what he called a “gigantic gap“ in the map; meaning Paraguays diplomatic stance
The situation highlights ongoing issues for Paraguayʼs farmers who cant sell soy to China because of:
* Being the last South American country with Taiwan ties
* Not having direct trade routes to mainland
* Missing out on bigger market deals
Deputy Minister Juan Baiardi pointed out that the diplomat had a hidden plan - doing internal politics that werenʼt ok for his position. When asked Chinaʼs foreign office didnt give any quick answers about this mess-up