Yi Whan-woo is a Korea Times journalist primarily covering finance. He writes in-depth articles on macroeconomy and financial markets and previously covered sports, politics, diplomacy and inter-Korean affairs, among others. Feel free to contact him at yistory@koreatimes.co.kr.
Paraguayan envoy vows to expand Korea ties on Independence Day
Paraguayan Ambassador to Korea Raul Silvero, front row sixth from left, joins a cake-cutting ceremony during a recent reception in Seoul to mark the 208th anniversary of Paraguay’s Independence Day. / Embassy of Paraguay
By Yi Whan-woo
By Yi Whan-woo
Paraguay is stepping up efforts to expand its presence in Asia and cooperation with Korea is “an important source of support,” Paraguayan Ambassador to Korea Raul Silvero said.
He said he wants to see the bilateral relationship go deeper in investment, trade, education, green growth and culture.
“Our country is strengthening its presence in Asian countries,” he said during a May 17 reception in Seoul to l to mark the 208th Independence Day.
He added such effort is in line with the government’s policy to diversify international relations since last year to overcome challenges as a land-locked country.
The two countries signed a diplomatic treaty in 1962. Ambassador Silvero noted that along with around 7,000 Korean immigrants, the relations between the two countries “have not only been strengthened over the past five decades, but have reached a point of maturity in its various manifestations.”
He added, “I must mention that Korean cooperation represents an important source of support for Paraguay, to advance in the path of progress and well-being.”
He underlined strategic areas for cooperation in 2020 range from health to water to rural development. The relevant projects are being carried out by Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), which spearheads assistance for developing countries under the wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
To bolster Paraguay-Korea ties, Ambassador Silvero said his government has been inviting Korean businesspeople to see Paraguay’s potential for economic development, including labor and natural resources.
He noted his government has been offering non-tariffs.
“Up to the present, numerous companies and entrepreneurs of the Republic of Korea have installed and are in the process of installing their factories, companies and ventures in various economic sectors of Paraguay, taking advantage of the multiple advantages and guarantees offered,” he said.
He said Paraguay’s membership with Mercosur, an economic and political bloc including Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Venezuela will give more business opportunities for Korean enterprises.
Talks are underway for Korea to sign a free trade agreement with Mercosur.
“The commercial pillar is an important part of our relationship, from which Korean and Paraguayan businessmen increasingly benefit,” the envoy said, adding Korean consumers will be able to enjoy key Paraguayan exports, such natural sweetener, yerba mate, chia, sesame, meat, charcoal, soy and leather.
Paraguay has been committed to training and educating its citizens, including civil servants, as part of efforts to transform into a “knowledge economy,” according to Ambassador Silvero. He acknowledged his appreciation for Korea’s support for providing scholarships to undergraduates and upper-level students.
He especially thanked the North Chungcheong provincial government, underlining its support to train over 200 teachers from Paraguay and donate teaching equipment.
Regarding cooperation on environment, the envoy noted Paraguay is a member of the board of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) for the 2019-2020 period.
Headquartered in Korea, the GGGI is an international organization aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth worldwide.
Ambassador Silvero referred to culture as “fundamental for the understanding of different nations,” saying “That is why we find ourselves, together with the Korean institutions, working in various projects that will allow us to further strengthen the friendship between our people.”
He added, “I would like to extend a fraternal greeting to the dear compatriots, residents in Korea and in the concurrent countries, who contribute to the development of these nations and enrich them with the Guarani culture.”