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Paraguay Expels Chinese Diplomat Xu Wei over Taiwan Interference, Orders Departure in 24 Hours

Dec 6, 2024, 04:01 AM

Paraguay has expelled Chinese diplomat Xu Wei, Minister Counselor of the Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for allegedly interfering in its domestic affairs by urging lawmakers to break diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China. The Paraguayan government canceled his visa and ordered him to leave the country within 24 hours. Xu Wei was attending a UNESCO meeting in Asunción as part of a Chinese delegation when he reportedly met with lawmakers to advocate for the recognition of China over Taiwan. Paraguay, one of only 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, accused the envoy of violating diplomatic norms. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded, stating that the accusations are unfounded, unjustified, and unacceptable.