MEXICO’S POSITION ON THE IMPEACHMENT OF PARAGUAYAN PRESIDENT FERNANDO LUGO

Regarding the impeachment of Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo, the Foreign Ministry, on behalf of the Mexican government, states the following:

1. The Mexican government has taken note of the decision to remove Fernando Lugo as President of Paraguay by impeaching him.

2. Although it acknowledges that the impeachment followed the procedure set forth in the Paraguayan Constitution, Mexico believes that this did not give former President Lugo the time or ability to defend himself properly, given the importance of the impeachment trial that led to his removal from office.

3. The Mexican government hopes that the various political forces in Paraguay continue their dialogue and that any acts of violence are avoided.

4. At this difficult time, Mexico acknowledges former President Lugo’s courage and sense of civic responsibility for respecting the decision of the Paraguayan Senate in order to reach a political solution to the crisis in his country.

5. In addition, the Mexican government states that, in accordance with the commitments made ​​by countries of the region in the international and regional forums, it is essential to ensure the physical integrity of former President Lugo and to give him all the guarantees due him by law.

6. Lastly, Mexico reiterates its solidarity with the people of Paraguay and hopes that the situation is resolved harmoniously and legally.