TAIPEI - Paraguay "deeply values" its relations with Taiwan and will continue to offer support, President Santiago Pena said on Friday (May 8) as he was formally welcomed in Taipei by President Lai Ching-te.

Paraguay is one of only 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan and Pena's visit comes as China steps up efforts to draw the South American country away from Taipei. China on Thursday called on him to end relations with Taiwan.