Israeli Foreign Minister Sa’ar Meets Paraguayan Leadership to Advance Security Ties

In a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar met Monday with Paraguayan officials in Asuncion, where the two nations signed a new memorandum of understanding focused on security cooperation.

Sa’ar’s visit began with a personal meeting with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Rubén Darío Ramírez Lezcano at the Foreign Ministry, followed by extended talks involving both countries' diplomatic and defense teams. Paraguayan Defense Minister Oscar Gonzalez also joined the discussions, underscoring the depth of strategic alignment between the two nations.

The Israeli foreign minister also held talks with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña, who warmly welcomed the visit. “Paraguay continues to strengthen alliances that look to the future,” Peña said. “This visit reaffirms the excellent moment of our bilateral relations and our commitment to continue expanding cooperation in strategic areas for the development of both peoples.”

The high-level meetings come at a time of renewed momentum in Israel–Paraguay relations. Weeks earlier, Paraguay’s new ambassador to the United States, Gustavo Leite, outlined a bold, pro-Israel diplomatic agenda. He reaffirmed Paraguay’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and emphasized the country’s intent to strengthen ties not only with Israel but also with Taiwan signaling Paraguay’s alignment with democratic allies worldwide.

“There is no doubt in the mountains of Paraguay that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel by the sacred books and by history,” Ambassador Leite said, describing the embassy's location in Jerusalem as both a political and spiritual affirmation.

Leite also pledged to attract Israeli and American investment to Paraguay’s growing economy and expressed interest in forming a bipartisan “Paraguay caucus” in Washington to support this agenda.

Monday’s meetings between Foreign Minister Sa’ar and Paraguayan leadership further solidify this diplomatic trajectory. The new security cooperation memorandum is expected to enhance coordination on counterterrorism, border protection, and defense innovation areas where Israel’s global expertise continues to make a vital impact.

As Paraguay positions itself as a steadfast friend of Israel in Latin America, and as both nations share values rooted in democracy, faith, and mutual respect, this partnership continues to grow stronger.

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