Taiwan seeks closer ties with Europe

台灣尋求與歐洲建立更緊密的關係

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan hopes to deepen mutually beneficial exchanges with Europe, Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu (吳志中) said during a recent meeting with a European Parliament delegation.

Wu told members of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group that Taiwan boasts a strong democratic system and diverse society, and has made major advances in technology, healthcare, sports, and culture, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The delegation, led by EU lawmaker Anders Vistisen, visited Taiwan from July 20 to 25.

Wu emphasized that in the face of Chinese coercion and gray-zone harassment, democratic countries must stand together to uphold shared values. He noted that China’s politicization of economic tools has led Taiwanese companies to cut investment in China from 84% a decade ago to just 7% last year.

Vistisen said the group’s priorities include boosting Europe’s competitiveness and promoting more rational and sustainable environmental and energy policies. As the third-largest political group in the European Parliament, he said they hope to play a greater role in decision-making and public policy debates.

During meetings with Taiwanese officials, the delegation discussed Taiwan’s political and economic development, geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, Taiwan–EU trade ties, and technological innovation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to strengthen cooperation with the European Parliament to bolster democratic resilience and expand Taiwan’s network of like-minded partners.