Jaushieh Joseph Wu
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
July 20, 2022
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Good evening!
It is my pleasure to host this dinner in honor of Vice President Beer and our distinguished guests. On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to all of you.
Last October, the European Parliament passed the EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation report, urging the EU to take a proactive role in working with international partners, to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. It also champions Taiwan's democracy and hails Taiwan as an important partner in the EU's Indo-Pacific Strategy.
As the first European Parliament report to specifically cover the topic of Taiwan-EU relations, it was significant to both Taiwan and the EU.
Since last year, the European Parliament has adopted 20 resolutions favorable to Taiwan. These resolutions have voiced serious concern over China's military provocations against Taiwan, and supported Taiwan's participation in international organizations. Members of the European Parliament have also called on the EU to strengthen cooperation with Taiwan in the Indo-Pacific region.
These powerful actions are genuinely appreciated by the people and the government of Taiwan. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to Vice President Beer [Baer], for your staunch support over recent years for Taiwan's freedom and democracy.
The Russia invasion of Ukraine has shown the world the worrying convergence of authoritarian regimes that has posed unprecedented threats to our shared values, and the rule-based international order. As Taiwan and the EU stand on the front lines against authoritarian expansion, we play even more critical roles in defending freedom and democracy.
As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is eager to share its experience of countering authoritarian influence to the world. We are ready to strengthen our collaboration with like-minded partners. I am confident that by working together, we can better safeguard the liberal democratic world order and maintain regional peace and security. The friendship and cooperation between Taiwan and EU will go from strength to strength.
In closing, I hope you all have a successful and memorable trip, and I look forward to a substantive exchange of views with you later. Now, please join me in a toast to Taiwan-EU friendship! Thank you!