Asuncion, 16 May 2022 (TDI): The Uruguayan President, Luis Lacalle Pou, visited Paraguay for a two-day visit to celebrate the 211th year of the country’s independence.
He visited the country at the invitation of Mario Abdo Benítez, the President of Paraguay for national celebrations. He was accompanied by senior Uruguayan officials including the Foreign Minister.
This year, the Republic of Paraguay celebrates 211 years of independence from the Spanish Empire, which it achieved in 1811. The Uruguayan President held a bilateral meeting with his Paraguayan counterpart at the Palacio de López.
Both leaders discussed issues on the bilateral agenda, including various aspects of the commercial and cooperation relationship.
In addition, Paraguay presented the Uruguayan President with the National Order of Merit in the rank of Marshal Francisco Solano López. It is the highest award Paraguay grants to a head-of-state.
During the occasion, the Uruguayan leader remarked that both countries have a commitment to the same historical values. He noted Paraguay’s economic progress.
He further proclaimed that Uruguay is Paraguay’s natural outlet to the sea and can use Uruguay’s resources to enhance its development.
Likewise, Paraguayan President Marito Benitz reviewed 176 years of bilateral relationship and measures for further regional integration. He expressed gratitude to Uruguay for its support during the COVID-19 pandemic and for the delivery of vaccines.
Furthermore, he also highlighted the collaboration of the two countries in international forums and friendship “which will surely transcend mandates.”
Both leaders attended the military and police parade in Asuncion to pay tribute to Paraguayan heroes.
Paraguay-Uruguay Relations
The two South American countries share history, language, and many aspects of culture. The Spanish-speaking countries enjoy good bilateral ties in almost all fields of cooperation.
Uruguay, being more developed economically, is an important trade partner for land-locked Paraguay. Moreover, the two countries are also members of Mercosur, a regional trade bloc including Argentina and Brazil.
