After four years, Ramin Navai, the British Ambassador to Paraguay, concluded his diplomatic mission and bid farewell with a thread on his X account, sharing unforgettable moments of his stay in Paraguay. His reflections captured his role as a diplomat and his personal connection to Paraguay and its people.
Under the hashtag #MeHalléwhen (I Found Myself When), Navai recounted episodes that shaped his life in Paraguay. “I wanted to share different memories from my four years in Paraguay, but time flew by. Before leaving, I open this thread to recall some special moments,” he began, touching the hearts of his followers.
An Ambassador who embraced Paraguay
Navai immersed himself in Paraguay’s everyday life. He recounted how he joined a group of volunteers to clean the Costanera of Asunción, a symbolic act of what can be achieved through unity. He also highlighted training alongside the National Board of Paraguay’s Volunteer Firefighters, calling it an honor: “A testament to the commitment to our heroes and the safety of Paraguay,” he expressed.
The diplomat shared his admiration for Paraguayan youth, whom he described as agents of change: “I saw the passion and energy of young people at climate change events. Their commitment inspires hope and action for a greener, sustainable future.”
One of the most profound stories in his thread was his learning about the challenges and resilience of Indigenous communities. “Working to defend human rights was one of the most meaningful experiences of my time here,” he emphasised.
The richness of everyday life
In his free time, British Ambassador Navai explored Paraguay’s daily life. I have visited Mercado 4, marveling at its cultural richness, and tasted traditional vori vori , which was named the best soup in the world this year. He also experienced the majesty of the Pantanal, which he described as “his favorite place in Paraguay,” leaving him “speechless” with its biodiversity.
On a personal note, Navai shared one of the most significant decisions of his life: adopting Emmie, a Paraguayan cat who will accompany him to his next destination. “She came into my life unexpectedly and brought joy to my days. I couldn’t imagine this new chapter without her,” he said.
Strengthening bilateral relations between Paraguay and the UK
Navai contributed to enhancing ties between Paraguay and the United Kingdom during his tenure. Among the milestones, he highlighted the historic visit of former British Foreign Minister David Cameron to Paraguay and his efforts to promote trade and investment exchanges. “I presented opportunities between our countries, welcoming British entrepreneurs to connect our economies,” he recalled.
A change in diplomatic representation
As this chapter closes, the United Kingdom has appointed a new representative to lead its Embassy in Paraguay. Danielle Dunne will officially assume the role of British Ambassador in 2025, continuing to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation and build on Ramin Navai’s legacy.
A farewell full of gratitude from the outgoing British Ambassador
In his final message, Navai bid farewell with words full of gratitude and affection for the Paraguayan people: “This country gave me much more than I could give it, but I tried. You will always be in my heart. Until next time. Rohayhu.”
With this goodbye, the British Ambassador leaves a remarkable tenure and a human legacy demonstrating diplomacy’s true measure lies in the connections forged between people. Navai carries Paraguay in his heart, leaving an enduring example of commitment, empathy, and authentic connection, and leaves with a very high reputation among the Paraguayan people as being highly-regarded as both an Ambassador and a person.
