Taipei/Brussels/Beijing – A delegation from the European Parliament arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday, defying threats from China. The 13-member high-level European delegation is visiting Taiwan for the first time. Analysts claim that the visit delivered an appropriate message to China. China has reacted sharply to the visit, warning not to send wrong messages on the Taiwan issue to the world. Two months ago, the European Parliament decided to strengthen ties with Taiwan.
On Wednesday, a European parliamentary delegation led by French member Raphaël Glucksmann arrived in Taiwan. They first met with Taiwanese Prime Minister Su Tseng-chang and then met Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen upon arrival. ‘We came here with a very simple, very clear message: Taiwan is not alone. Europe is standing with you.’ said Glucksmann. Today’s visit is the first important step and high-level meetings will continue to be held, assured the European delegation.
‘We believe Taiwan and the EU can certainly continue strengthening our partnership in all domains. We hope to establish a democratic alliance against disinformation.’ said Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen. An official visit to Taiwan by a delegation from the European Parliament comes as a major blow to China’s ruling regime.
China has strongly condemned the visit by a European Parliament delegation. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said that the European Union should correct its mistakes and not send the wrong messages on the Taiwan issue. Earlier, China had warned Europe over the Taiwan issue, reminding it of the ‘One China Principle’. But over the past year, European countries have been making independent decisions, ignoring the Chinese pressure. The Union’s policy on the Taiwan issue also seems to be part of such decisions. A few days ago, the Taiwanese Foreign Minister visited Europe. During his visit, several senior European officials held discussions with the Taiwanese Foreign Minister. Before the visit, Lithuania, a member of the Union, had announced that it would take steps to improve relations with Taiwan.
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