Dr. Lin Chia-lung
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
November 27, 2024
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Ladies and gentlemen:
Good evening!
It is a great honor to be here this evening for “Light It Up,” the grand finale reception for the 2024 Year of Innovation and Culture hosted by the Netherlands Office Taipei.
The Netherlands is one of Taiwan’s most important partners in Europe. Our nations have forged a successful relationship that transcends geographical distance. I myself have very fond memories of visiting the Netherlands for city-to-city exchanges in 2016. Furthermore, during my tenure as mayor of Taichung City, we proudly signed a Circular Economy Declaration with the Netherlands in 2018. This initiative underscored the importance of sustainability and demonstrated the vast potential for innovation partnerships.
Today, our two countries continue to enjoy a strong bilateral relationship defined by robust economic ties and a shared commitment to such universal values as freedom, democracy, and human rights.
This year marks the 400th anniversary of first contact between Taiwan and the Netherlands, which occurred in 1624. This Year of Innovation and Culture has proven to be a fabulous way of celebrating that milestone.
Throughout the year, we have celebrated numerous delightful events together. For example, the Netherlands was guest of honor at the Taipei International Book Exhibition. We also enjoyed a vibrant King’s Day. These events, coupled with ongoing cultural and people-to-people exchanges, further strengthened the bond between Taiwan and the Netherlands.
The essence of Taiwan’s integrated diplomacy lies in fostering economic and trade partnerships with like-minded nations to achieve mutual prosperity. Taiwan and the Netherlands have long maintained close cooperation in such critical fields as semiconductors, renewable energy, and electronics. The steady increase in investments from Dutch companies like ASML exemplifies both the existing strength and future potential of our economic ties.
We have been pleased to witness the Dutch government and parliament demonstrating increasing support for Taiwan in recent years. In particular, for the first time, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs congratulated Taiwan on its successful elections in January. Moreover, we appreciate the Dutch government dispatching the frigate Tromp to transit the Taiwan Strait in May and voicing indirect support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly.
The Dutch Parliament has passed four Taiwan-friendly motions this year, underscoring its commitment to our shared values. The motions have covered the PRC’s misrepresentation of UNGA resolution 2758 and the Netherlands’ support for Taiwan’s international participation. The most recent motion was passed a week ago, calling for the start of official negotiations on an investment agreement between Taiwan and a leading group of European countries. Building on this strong foundation, we very much look forward to even closer relations in all areas.
In closing, I want to extend my gratitude to Mr. Tielman and the Netherlands Office Taipei once again for all they do to promote cultural initiatives with Taiwan and for making this Year of Innovation and Culture such a meaningful way of celebrating our wonderful 400-year friendship.
Finally, I wish everyone here tonight the best of health and happiness. Thank you!