Paraguay rejects Chinese sanctions against minister over Taiwan ties

China has imposed sanctions against Paraguayan Information and Communication Technology Minister Gustavo Villate and Belizean Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca due to their nations' diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The measures include freezing assets held in China, prohibiting transactions with Chinese entities or individuals, and denying entry visas to mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Paraguayan officials have rejected the sanctions, asserting the nation's sovereignty and freedom to associate with any partner. Vice Minister of Communication Enrique Biedermann stated that Paraguay remains a free and sovereign nation that will maintain its alliance with Taiwan. Minister Villate responded by stating that no external sanction dictates Paraguayan decisions and pledged to accelerate digital infrastructure projects with Taiwan, including the Yguazú Digital artificial intelligence center.

China characterized the officials as ‘anti-China politicians’ who have ‘obstinately supported’ relations with Taiwan. Paraguay and Belize are among the 12 nations that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.