Asunción, Agencia IP.- For the first time in over a century of diplomatic relations, Japan has decided to elevate its relationship with Paraguay from a friendly relationship to that of a strategic partner, announced President Santiago Peña, who met with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Wednesday as part of his official visit.
Paraguay and Japan are strengthening their ties like never before, building a relationship of trust, cooperation, and mutual development following the meeting between Prime Minister Shigeru and President Peña.
This historic step «reaffirms the value of our people, our stability, and the opportunities our country offers to the world,» said Peña.
The Paraguayan president expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shigeru for recognizing Paraguay as a strategic partner in the region.
«This historic step reaffirms the value of our people, our stability, and the opportunities our country offers to the world. We continue working for a Paraguay that plays a leading role on the international stage,» he posted on social media.
«Taking relations to new heights»
For his part, the Japanese Prime Minister noted that he and President Peña had an open exchange of views aimed at taking bilateral relations to «new heights.»
On this point, Peña stated that this gesture marks a profound shift in mutual recognition between the two nations and positions Paraguay as the first middle-power country in Latin America to reach this level of relationship with Japan.
«I’m certain this visit will mark a before and after in the opportunities that will arise from Japan toward Paraguay,» the President affirmed.
Ishiba Shigeru concluded his message: «As strategic partners, I am committed to working closely with President Peña in various areas to strengthen further bilateral relations between our people and cooperation with the international community.»
Multimillion-dollar loan for public works
Separately, following his meeting with the Prime Minister, the head of state announced a USD 240 million loan for infrastructure projects that will transform the lives of Paraguayans.
Additionally, he announced the introduction of visa-free entry for Paraguayan citizens visiting Japan for short stays and the signing of a political consultation agreement that will deepen bilateral cooperation even further.