Paraguay's government has publicly distanced itself from racist remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla against France captain Kylian Mbappé following France's 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
The Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Monday that Amarilla's comments did not reflect the views of the government or the Paraguayan people.
"The remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national team, Kylian Mbappé, are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes," the ministry said.
The government added that the senator's statements were made in her personal capacity and reaffirmed Paraguay's commitment to "the promotion of human rights, equality and respect between people, the fight against racism, xenophobia, intolerance and any manifestation of hatred or discrimination."
Amarilla made the remarks on social media after Mbappé scored the winning penalty that sent France into the quarterfinals.
She referred to the French forward as a "colonised Cameroonian" and made several other racist comments that drew widespread condemnation.
Mbappé responded strongly on social media, calling the senator "a despicable woman and unworthy of your position."
"You do not represent Paraguay, that country which has sweated passion and honour throughout the competition," he wrote. "Through your recklessness and your brazen racism, the entire world has already forgotten the journey and the historic effort that your players accomplished during this World Cup."
The French Football Federation also condemned the remarks and announced plans to file a criminal complaint, describing the comments as offensive and unacceptable.
French President Emmanuel Macron joined Paraguayan officials in denouncing the senator's statements, saying racism has no place in football or society.
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