Europe has recognized Taiwan importance in shaping regional security and global geopolitics, according to former German European Parliament member Reinhard Butikofer. Speaking at the European Values Summit in Prague on Wednesday and Thursday, Butikofer said the continent has undergone a fundamental shift in its approach to Taiwan in recent years. He urged the European Union to adopt a geopolitical framework to guide its policy on the Taiwan Strait and other strategic issues.
Butikofer explained that many European decisionmakers historically treated Taiwan as a dependent partner primarily due to its democratic system and limited trade ties with Beijing. However, developments in Taiwan, China’s behavior, and the EU’s evolving geopolitical perspective have prompted a reassessment. The former European Green Party cochair highlighted that China’s crackdown on Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement marked a turning point for Europe’s understanding of Beijing’s ambitions.
Moreover, China’s support for Russia during the Ukraine invasion demonstrated the nation’s aggressive global posture, reinforcing Europe’s realization of Taiwan importance. Butikofer emphasized that Taiwan’s democratic governance and global contributions require Europe to view the island beyond cross-strait relations alone. He argued that Beijing’s weaponization of trade and economics also forced European leaders to integrate commerce and security considerations more tightly.
The former MEP acknowledged former President Tsai Ing-wen’s efforts in strengthening Taiwan-EU ties but said Europe has not fully leveraged these opportunities. He stressed that treating Taiwan as an outlier undermines regional security and European strategic interests. Taiwan importance extends not only to East Asia but also to Europe’s broader political and economic stability.
Looking ahead, Butikofer urged the EU to formalize a strategy that incorporates Taiwan importance, ensuring the bloc addresses future geopolitical challenges effectively. He concluded that stronger Europe-Taiwan engagement is critical to counterbalance regional threats and sustain global democratic norms.
