Kelly Wu-Chiao Hsieh
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
March 19, 2024
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
Good afternoon!
Thank you, Ms. Sgro, for your gracious introduction.
On behalf of the people and government of Taiwan, please allow me to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Parliament of Canada for its unwavering support over the years. Having served as director general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto from 2006 to 2008, I always hold a special place for Canada in my heart. I can still remember calling on parliamentarians in the Toronto area. Some of them are still serving in the House of Commons today—and one of them is our esteemed host, Ms. Sgro. It’s wonderful to meet with old friends again.
In recent years, Canada’s support for Taiwan has been more evident than ever. From motions supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organizations to the publication of its comprehensive Canada-Taiwan relations report, the Parliament of Canada has stood firmly in solidarity with Taiwan. Notably, recent visits by four Canadian parliamentary delegations to Taiwan have also continued to demonstrate the depth of our relationship and the mutual respect we share.
Today, I wish to underscore the importance of strengthening economic resilience between Taiwan and Canada. Both our nations have been subjected to economic coercion for political reasons. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed many vulnerabilities in global supply chains. Given this volatile geopolitical landscape, the need for investment diversification and closer supply chain collaboration among like-minded countries cannot be overstated.
With its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the rule of law, Taiwan can continue to be an invaluable partner for Canada. Beyond traditional sectors, our collaboration is now extending to emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and the hydrogen economy. Taiwanese companies like Foxconn and E-One Moli Energy are investing in Canada, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Moreover, the presence of Taiwanese high-tech giant TSMC in Canada— particularly in Kanata—signifies the potential for further collaboration in semiconductor research and development. Canada’s strategic investments in initiatives like the North American semiconductor corridor also present opportunities for synergy and mutual benefits.
The recently signed Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement shows our shared commitment to deepening bilateral economic ties and fostering a sustainable trade environment. With this in mind, we look forward to more mutually beneficial two-way investments in the future.
In addition, as the rotating chair of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership this year, Canada is playing a leading role in discussions governing the review process for CPTPP applications. Taiwan’s accession to the CPTPP would not only bolster this important economic pact but also offer Canada access to diverse export markets. Despite the challenges of the accession process, Taiwan remains steadfast in its commitment to aligning with the agreement’s standards and promoting transparency.
Ladies and gentlemen, this year offers tremendous opportunities to further advance our shared values of democracy and economic prosperity. Your support truly matters to this endeavor.
I look forward to a lively discussion and exchanges. Thank you!