Lai Ching-te thanks European Parliament for inviting Hsiao Bi-khim to democratic forum

President Lai Ching-te posted a message on the social media platform X today (the 14th), expressing gratitude to European Parliament Vice-President Pina Picierno for inviting Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao to attend the upcoming Ventotene European Seminar on Freedom and Democracy. President Lai pointed out in the post that the forum focuses on freedom and democracy issues in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, and that Vice President Hsiao's invitation to attend symbolizes that Taiwan has gained broader recognition and support on the international stage. Following the post, Picierno immediately retweeted President Lai's message, emphasizing that "the European Parliament must always stand firmly on the side of freedom and democracy." This remark not only echoes President Lai's diplomatic appeals but once again highlights the European Parliament's adherence to global democratic values.

This interaction comes at a critical juncture when cross-strait relations are heating up due to Beijing's military pressure, and Taiwan is seeking more substantive support from the international community. Since 2022, parliaments in multiple European countries have successively passed resolutions supporting Taiwan's participation in international organizations and expressed concern over mainland China's military threats. As Vice-President of the European Parliament, Picierno represents the collective stance of the EU legislative body. Her public statement holds symbolic significance for Taiwan and provides concrete political resources for Taiwan's diplomatic layout in Europe.

The Ventotene European Seminar on Freedom and Democracy is an annual event co-organized by the European Parliament and several European think tanks, aimed at examining the challenges and opportunities facing global democratic systems. Past forums have invited several Asian democratic leaders to deliver speeches, demonstrating Europe's continuous attention to the democratic development of the Asia-Pacific region. In addition to sharing Taiwan's successful experiences in pandemic prevention, technology, and human rights, Vice President Hsiao will also offer recommendations on the peace and stability of cross-strait relations during her invited attendance, hoping to ease regional tensions through dialogue. This move not only enhances Taiwan's visibility in international public policy discussions but also lays a more solid foundation for future trade, investment, and technological cooperation with European countries.

In the cross-strait political landscape, Europe's stance is often viewed as a "third-party" balancing force. While the European Parliament has long adhered to its "one China" policy, it has also emphasized that nations should maintain substantive relations with Taiwan. Picierno's retweet and statement imply that while upholding the values of freedom and democracy, the European Parliament does not rule out granting Taiwan greater diplomatic space. For international investors, this message also serves as a signal that the European market affirms Taiwan's political stability and rule-taking legal environment, which may further foster bilateral cooperation in high-tech fields such as semiconductors, green energy, and the digital economy.

Overall, President Lai's post and Picierno's response demonstrate the strategic effectiveness of Taiwan's active pursuit of democratic partners on the international stage. Facing pressure from mainland China, Taiwan has secured more international support through interactions with multilateral institutions like the European Parliament, while laying the groundwork for its rights to participate in international organizations in the future. This diplomatic achievement not only elevates Taiwan's international visibility but also sends a clear signal both domestically and internationally that "freedom and democracy will never be compromised." (Source of facts: Central News Agency)