Paraguay Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano speaks during a press conference during his visit in Taipei, Taiwan.
Chiang Ying-ying/AP
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Chiang Ying-ying/AP
ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay — Paraguay made an announcement on Tuesday about recalling its ambassador to Brazil following Brazilian authorities’ acknowledgment of conducting espionage on Paraguayan officials in 2022. Additionally, Paraguay’s government declared the suspension of negotiations with Brazil regarding the joint operation of a hydroelectric dam.
Paraguay’s decision was prompted by Brazil’s revelation that the administration of Jair Bolsonaro had conducted espionage against Paraguay.
Lula’s government stated that the surveillance was ceased immediately upon discovery, but did not provide further details on the operation.
Reports indicated that Brazilian intelligence agents infiltrated Paraguayan computer systems to gather information on tariff negotiations related to the Itaipu dam.
In response, Paraguay decided to halt negotiations with Brazil until clarification on the espionage activities is provided.
The Paraguayan Foreign Ministry initiated an investigation into the reported espionage that occurred during Bolsonaro’s presidency.
Foreign Minister Rubén Lezcano condemned the violation of international law and stated that necessary measures would be taken to protect confidential information.
Lezcano confirmed the recall of Paraguay’s ambassador to Brazil and the summoning of the Brazilian ambassador for an explanation regarding the cyber-spying incident.
Although not severing diplomatic ties completely, this development highlights historical tensions between the two countries dating back to the 1860s.
The Itaipu dam, a source of contention for Paraguay, has been a subject of debate surrounding energy generation and sovereignty.
