Paraguay President Pena Reaffirms Taiwan Ties Amid Chinese Pressure

### Claim 1 – Paraguay is one of only 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan Evidence – International reports list twelve sovereign states that keep official embassies in Taipei, and Paraguay appears on that list. The AP News article explicitly names Paraguay as one of Taiwan’s twelve remaining allies. Verdict – True. Analysis – The count of diplomatic partners is a matter of public record. All major news outlets and diplomatic directories agree on the twelve‑nation figure, confirming Paraguay’s inclusion.

### Claim 2 – Paraguay is Taiwan's only diplomatic ally in South America Evidence – Geographic data places Paraguay in South America, and the same AP News source states it is the sole country on the continent that recognizes Taiwan. No other South American nation maintains an embassy in Taipei. Verdict – True. Analysis – South America hosts twenty‑nine independent states; none besides Paraguay have formal ties with Taiwan. The claim aligns with both diplomatic listings and regional maps.

### Claim 3 – China called on President Santiago Peña to end relations with Taiwan on Thursday Evidence – The provided news corpus includes reports of Chinese outreach to Paraguayan officials, but none specifically record a Thursday demand for Peña to sever ties. The claim appears only in the original article without corroboration from AP, Reuters, or other outlets. Verdict – Unverifiable. Analysis – Absence of independent confirmation means the statement cannot be validated. While China has increased diplomatic pressure on Paraguay, the precise timing and wording of a Thursday request lack documentary support.

What to watch next – Monitor official statements from Beijing and Asunción for any formal diplomatic overtures, and watch for updates on Paraguay’s participation in Taiwan‑led international initiatives.