Hsiao Bi-khim speaks out against Chinese pressure in Italy, gaining European support

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim attended the Ventotene European Seminar of Federalism and Culture in Italy on the 12th of this month by invitation, delivering a statement at the forum regarding recent diplomatic protests from China against Taiwan. She pointed out that Taiwan, as a democratic regime, deserves to be treated equally in international settings, and that any attempts to obstruct normal exchanges through political pressure violate international law and the fundamental principles of freedom and democracy. Vice President Hsiao's remarks not only served as a response to China's escalating diplomatic pressure, but also highlighted Taiwan's growing support regarding European democratic and human rights issues.

Following Hsiao's speech, multiple senior Italian politicians immediately voiced their support for Taiwan. Gian Marco Centinaio, Vice President of the Italian Senate, stated at a press conference that hosting Taiwanese officials is an honor for Italy, while condemning China's protests as "unacceptable." He emphasized that Italy, as a major European democracy, should uphold the diplomatic principles of reciprocity and respect, and must never allow external forces to interfere in normal bilateral interactions through threats. This stance demonstrates that the Italian political sphere maintains a very clear position on upholding the international order and defending the sovereignty of smaller nations.

Meanwhile, Ettore Rosato, deputy leader of the Action party group in the Italian Chamber of Deputies, also issued comments describing Beijing's protests as "completely absurd," and warned that Italy and the European Union "must never accept any vetoes or intimidation." Rosato noted that the European Union has repeatedly called on China in recent years to abide by international norms, particularly concerning cross-strait security and human rights issues, and that EU member states should speak with one voice to prevent unilateral political pressure from undermining regional stability. This remark not only echoed the EU's unified stance on China policy, but also showed that Italy's attitude toward the Taiwan issue is aligning with the broader European consensus.

Viewed from a broader international context, China's methods of diplomatic pressure against Taiwan have grown increasingly diverse in recent years, including restricting Taiwanese officials from visiting abroad and obstructing Taiwan's participation in international organizations. The response from European countries has been polarized: some nations remain silent due to economic interests, while others openly support Taiwan, guided by human rights and democratic values. Italy's latest statements come at a critical juncture in the internal EU debate over China policy, and may influence the EU's future collective voice and action plans regarding the Taiwan issue.

For Taiwan, Vice President Hsiao's trip is not only a diplomatic "ice-breaking" move, but also demonstrates Taiwan's role in global democratic governance to the international community. If Taiwan can continue to secure support from European countries, including Italy, its visibility and participation on the international stage will be further enhanced, while also laying the groundwork to secure more external resources and backing when facing pressure from China. Moving forward, interactions between Taiwan and Europe will still need to deepen across multiple dimensions—such as economy, technology, and security—to ensure mutual benefit and stability amid changing circumstances.

In summary, Vice President Hsiao's speech in Italy and the subsequent statements of support for Taiwan by Italian politicians highlight Taiwan's growing recognition within the international democratic camp, while also reflecting Europe's vigilance and resistance against China's diplomatic pressure. This event is not merely a diplomatic interaction, but also a public test of international order and values. How all parties build upon this foundation to foster more constructive cooperation will become an important indicator for observing the political trajectories of the Taiwan Strait and Eurasia.