- At the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Chairman of the European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group (EPTFG) Werner Langen led a seven-member delegation, comprising Members of the European Parliament and staff, to Taiwan from February 17 to 22. MOFA warmly welcomed the delegation’s visit.
During their stay in Taiwan, the delegation members met with President Tsai Ing-wen and Legislative Yuan President Su Jia-chyuan. They also called at the National Security Council, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mainland Affairs Council, European Economic and Trade Office, and political party headquarters. In addition, arrangements were made for the delegation to visit the National Palace Museum, Gogoro Taiwan Ltd., and other places of interest.
During their trip, Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu conferred the Friendship Medal of Diplomacy upon MEP Belder, MEP Kukan, and MEP Preda. Chairman Langen also received an honorary doctorate in political science from Soochow University and deliver a speech on Taiwan-EU relations.
The European Parliament has passed numerous resolutions supporting Taiwan in recent years. For example, MEP Belder submitted a resolution adopted in September concerning the state of EU-China relations. Another was adopted on December 12 regarding the Annual Report on the implementation of the Common Foreign and Security Policy. Both resolutions expressed concerns over peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, encouraged cross-strait dialogue, and reiterated support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations.
On January 30, the European Parliament discussed the latest developments in cross-strait relations. During the debate, MEPs across political groups denounced China’s intention to resolve the cross-strait issue through force. They also urged China to recognize the fact of the existence of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and to respect the right of the people of Taiwan to determine their own future. The MEPs also asked the European Commission to take concrete actions in support of Taiwan.
This delegation led by Chairman Langen further confirmed the European Parliament’s friendship and support for Taiwan. Looking ahead, the two sides will continue to deepen bilateral exchanges on the basis of their existing framework.(E)
