Asunción, Agencia IP.- In an exclusive interview with Tribuna, a program on Paraguay TV, Guillermo Sosa, Paraguay’s Ambassador to the Republic of Türkiye, outlined the main goals of his upcoming diplomatic mission, which will focus on economic promotion, strategic political relations, and technical cooperation with the Eurasian nation.
«We’re ready to settle in Ankara,» Sosa said, confirming that he will officially assume his post in the coming days. He noted that the Turkish capital is less than 100 years old as the seat of political power—a strategic decision made by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye, who abolished the sultanate and caliphate and moved the capital from Istanbul to the country’s center. «It was a smart move, similar to Brazil moving its capital to Brasília. Though it required great political and economic effort, it was a success,» he remarked.
Sosa emphasized that Türkiye is not only important as a bilateral partner but also serves as a regional platform. From Ankara, his diplomatic responsibilities will extend to other countries where he will serve concurrently as ambassador, including Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Iraq. «There’s a lot to be done not just in Türkiye, but in the region. Azerbaijan, for instance, has already shown interest in investing in Paraguay,» he noted.
During the interview, the ambassador stressed that his agenda will be primarily economic. Promoting exports, attracting investment, and opening new markets will be key priorities. «Paraguay can feed 80 million people, but we are only seven million. We can’t depend solely on Argentina, Brazil, and Mercosur. We must seek markets beyond the region, and Türkiye offers that opportunity,» he said.
With a population of 85 million, Türkiye is the 17th-largest economy in the world and has the potential to climb further. It also maintains a customs union with the European Union, making it a key access point to the European market. «They have developed industries and manufacture metal and household products, but they need food. Our trade strategy must aim to sell value-added products—not just soy or beef,» Sosa explained.
Among concrete advancements, he highlighted that Paraguay is in the final stages of gaining access to the Turkish market for its beef, thanks to the efforts of the Foreign Ministry, the National Animal Health and Quality Service (Senacsa), and outgoing ambassador Ceferino Valdez. He also mentioned opportunities in products such as rice, sesame, chia, stevia, chicken, and higher-value meat byproducts.
Reflecting on his professional background, Sosa recalled being one of the founders of Pro Paraguay, the country’s first institution focused on investment promotion and market access—now the foundation of the current Rediex (Investment and Export Network). He also praised those who led that initiative through its various stages. «We were part of a team that had the vision and took action to build an investment attraction policy with a strategic focus. Today, we’re seeing the results,» he said.
One of the challenges he highlighted is strengthening the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in international trade. According to the ambassador, there are currently around 1,000 Paraguayan MSMEs ready to export, half of which are already doing so. «Support systems have always focused on large companies, but that’s changing. We need to include SMEs in international fairs and support their quality and certification processes,» he emphasized, citing the Anuga trade fair as an example—one of the main global gatherings for the food sector.
Sosa also pushed for innovation in how Paraguayan products are positioned abroad, particularly beef. He proposed opening Paraguayan restaurants with national chefs in major world capitals. «Paraguayan beef has nothing to envy from Argentine or Uruguayan beef. We’ve already shown in countries like Germany that with good presentation, we can position ourselves as leaders,» he said.
Another important topic was technical and educational cooperation. He announced that in January, a call will open for Paraguayan students to apply for fully funded scholarships in Türkiye, in technical and social fields, financed by the Turkish government. He also noted that connections already exist with Turkish media outlets such as TRT and Anadolu Agency, with whom Paraguay will work to raise visibility and foster better bilateral understanding.
In conclusion, Sosa reflected on diplomacy as a development tool and the need to build bridges with all nations. «Paraguay’s foreign policy is one of friendship. We have our priorities, but we are friends with everyone. Türkiye is a gateway to regions where we must be present,» he stated.
With a strong track record in public policy, economic promotion, and previous diplomatic experience, Guillermo Sosa embarks on a mission that positions Paraguay strategically on the international stage.