Paraguay and France Condemn Senator Celeste Amarilla’s Remarks About Mbappé

JAKARTA, Jakartaweekly.com — The Paraguayan government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has condemned remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla targeting France national team captain Kylian Mbappé, stressing that her comments contradict the country’s core values and do not represent the official position of Paraguay.

In a statement released by Paraguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed regret and rejected Amarilla’s remarks, saying they were inconsistent with the principles of peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity.

“These statements are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity promoted by our country,” the government said.

The Paraguayan government also emphasized that the country is a democratic republic founded on the principle of the separation of powers. It said Amarilla’s remarks were made solely in her personal capacity as a member of the legislature and do not reflect the position of either the Government of the Republic of Paraguay or the Paraguayan people.

“The senator’s statements fall exclusively under her individual responsibility as a member of the Legislative Branch and in no way represent the position of the Government of the Republic of Paraguay or the Paraguayan people,” the statement read.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, equality, and mutual respect. It also reiterated its opposition to racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and all forms of hatred and discrimination.

In addition, Paraguay expressed solidarity with anyone who may have been affected by Amarilla’s remarks and reaffirmed its respect for the French people, highlighting the long-standing friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding between Paraguay and France.

“The Government of Paraguay expresses its solidarity with those who may have been affected by these statements and reiterates its respect for the French people, with whom Paraguay has maintained a historic relationship of friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding,” the statement said.

The official statement marks the latest development in the controversy sparked by Amarilla’s comments about Mbappé. Earlier, the French captain condemned the Paraguayan senator, describing her remarks as racist.

Amarilla later responded in an open letter, demanding that Mbappé retract his statements, apologize, and warning that she would consider legal action if he failed to comply.

French President Emmanuel Macron has also voiced his support for Mbappé amid the dispute. Macron described the football star’s stance as “another goal,” this time in the fight against racism.

In a post on X, Macron said Mbappé had once again scored a “goal”—not on the football pitch, but by standing up against racism.

“Another goal from Kylian Mbappé. This time against racism. He has my full support. When words defile, our values respond: dignity, respect, and fraternity,” Macron wrote.