April 3, 2024
No.124
Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu hosted a dinner on April 2 to welcome a seven-member parliamentary delegation from the UK Labour Party. He used the occasion to thank the United Kingdom for the high level of regard that all political parties had shown for Taiwan in recent years and for its emphasis on the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The delegation was led by Lord Leong, Cochair of Labour Friends of Taiwan and Shadow Spokesperson for Business and Trade.
Minister Wu stated that global security and prosperity were closely intertwined and that the Russia-Ukraine war had caused enormous economic losses worldwide. He said that the democratic alliance should continue to work together in the face of continuing authoritarian expansion. Noting that Taiwan and the United Kingdom were like-minded partners that shared the values of democracy and freedom, Minister Wu also urged the two countries to deepen cooperation so as to advance regional peace and stability.
Lord Leong lauded Taiwan as a beacon of freedom and democracy, pointing out that Taiwan was not only a staunch protector of human rights and diverse values but also a model for the peaceful transfer of power. He stated that the United Kingdom would continue to support Taiwan’s substantive international participation and push for Taiwan to gain observer status in international organizations. He also called for the two countries to bolster cooperation and exchanges in renewable energy, digital trade, semiconductor technology, and other domains. He stressed that in the face of rapid change and the many challenges confronting the international arena, the United Kingdom would adopt a positive and pragmatic approach in working jointly with Taiwan to pursue progress.
This was the first delegation representing the Labour Party’s shadow cabinet to visit Taiwan. Among other things, the two sides exchanged views on economics, trade, and investment development; technological research, innovation, and cooperation; and educational and academic exchanges. They also agreed that Taiwan and the United Kingdom would continue to enhance comprehensive bilateral cooperation and exchanges so as to ensure an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. (E)