President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) welcomed the visiting Paraguayan President Santiago Peña with a grand military ceremony on the morning of Friday, May 8. Both presidents delivered speeches following a 21-gun salute and the playing of national anthems.

Lai noted that this is President Peña’s fourth visit to Taiwan, which demonstrates not only the high regard he has for Taiwan but also the solid and deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. He said that Taiwan and Paraguay are partners committed to the values of democracy, freedom and human rights. Over nearly 70 years of diplomatic relations, the countries have continued to deepen fruitful cooperation in education, healthcare and trade.

Peña said in a speech that the military honors are not just a part of diplomatic protocol but also symbolize the mutual respect between the two nations and the unwavering determination to deepen and strengthen cooperation. He expressed hope that his visit will open up new opportunities for dialogue, cooperation and forward-looking development between Taiwan and Paraguay.