ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay – Spain will provide a total of €90 million (approximately ₩132 billion) in development cooperation to Paraguay over four years, from 2025 to 2028. This commitment follows the recent signing of the "Spain-Paraguay 2025-2028 Framework Agreement for Sustainable Development Cooperation" between the two nations. The program aims to address inequality, foster a just ecological transition, and strengthen human rights and the rule of law in Paraguay.
Javier Parondo, the Spanish Ambassador to Asunción, emphasized that the agreement underscores Spain's strong commitment to Paraguay's development. He stated, "This agreement further expands the ambition of Spanish cooperation, clarifies its objectives, and provides stability by securing the budget." According to the Spanish Embassy, Spain has designated Paraguay as a priority country for cooperation through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), intending to actively support Paraguay's sustainable development through this agreement.
Key Areas and Objectives of Cooperation
The agreement focuses on three core areas for Paraguay's social, environmental, and institutional development:
Reduction of Inequality: Spain will contribute to reducing socioeconomic disparities within Paraguay. The focus is expected to be on improving the quality of life for vulnerable groups through enhanced access to education, healthcare, and social services. It is highly probable that programs for rural development and support for marginalized communities will be included.
Just Ecological Transition: Responding to climate change and sustainable resource management is a crucial pillar of this cooperation. Spain will spare no effort in supporting Paraguay to minimize social imbalances that may arise during its transition to an environmentally sustainable economic model. This could include technology transfer and capacity-building programs in areas such as renewable energy development, sustainable agriculture, and forest conservation.
Human Rights and Rule of Law: Strengthening democracy, respecting human rights, and establishing transparent and fair rule of law are essential for Paraguay's stable development. Spain is expected to support programs aimed at reinforcing the judicial system, increasing civil society participation, and protecting the rights of vulnerable groups. This may encompass various human rights areas, including promoting gender equality and protecting indigenous rights.
Active High-Level Exchanges Between Both Countries
The agreement was signed on June 4 in Madrid by Eva Granados, Spain's Secretary of State for International Cooperation, and Víctor Alfredo Verdún, Paraguay's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs. During his visit to Madrid, Vice Minister Verdún met with Susana Sumelzo, Spain's Secretary of State for Ibero-America and the Caribbean, and agreed to reactivate bilateral dialogue within the political consultation mechanism. This indicates a deepening of relations between the two countries.
Spanish Prime Minister's Visit to Paraguay and Business Forum
On July 23, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will visit Paraguay as part of his South American tour. During his visit, Prime Minister Sánchez is scheduled to attend a signing ceremony for agreements of mutual interest with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña. He will also participate in a forum for business leaders from both countries, seeking to expand cooperation in infrastructure, water and sanitation, and energy sectors. This visit is expected to be a significant opportunity for Spanish companies to expand their presence in the Paraguayan market and for strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.
Cultural Exchange and Homage to Josefina Plá
During Prime Minister Sánchez's visit to Paraguay, a commemorative event will also be held to honor Josefina Plá, a Spanish-born artist, journalist, and writer who passed away in 1999. Josefina Plá is recognized for her significant contributions to the development of modern art in Paraguay, and this homage will contribute to strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
Spain's substantial development cooperation support is expected to significantly contribute to Paraguay's achievement of sustainable development goals. In particular, support for the key areas of inequality reduction, environmental protection, and human rights promotion will play a vital role in improving the overall quality of Paraguayan society. The 활성화 of high-level exchanges between the two countries and the Spanish Prime Minister's visit demonstrate that this cooperation is evolving into a long-term and strategic partnership.
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