Taiwan matters in Europe as Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim delivered a historic address in Brussels. She became the first Taiwanese vice president to speak inside a European parliament while in office, marking a rare diplomatic breakthrough for Taipei. Her participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China summit underscored deepening support for democratic cooperation across the region.
Hsiao opened her remarks by urging democratic partners to strengthen unity in the face of rising authoritarian pressure. She noted that democracies share responsibilities that extend beyond borders and stressed that shared values create lasting bonds. Moreover, she argued that Taiwan matters because democratic partnerships depend on mutual commitment, not geographic proximity.
She outlined Taiwan’s strategy for building whole-of-society resilience through civic preparation, cybersecurity measures and diversified trade. She emphasized that the Taiwan Strait remains vital for global supply chains and stable economic activity. Then, she added that China’s attempts to alter the regional status quo challenge long-standing international expectations.
Lawmakers from more than 50 countries joined the gathering and responded strongly to Hsiao’s message. Many offered a lengthy standing ovation and requested photos with her afterward. Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Fan Yun said Hsiao clearly explained why Taiwan matters to global security and democratic stability.
Taiwan joined IPAC as an official member last year, expanding its participation in democratic coalitions. Despite limited formal diplomatic ties in Europe, several countries have hosted senior or former Taiwanese officials. These moves have continued despite objections from Beijing, which warns European governments against closer engagement with Taipei.
Taiwanese officials have also increased direct outreach to Europe. Former president Tsai Ing-wen traveled to Berlin this weekend to join the Berlin Freedom Conference. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung recently completed visits to several European capitals and created a Europe task force to coordinate policy efforts.
China criticized Hsiao’s appearance in Brussels and claimed the visit violated the one-China principle. European lawmakers at the summit rejected that claim and defended their decision to engage Taiwanese leaders openly. They argued that cooperation with Taiwan aligns with democratic values and advances regional stability.
Hsiao’s visit strengthened Taiwan’s profile in Europe and highlighted growing interest in deeper cooperation. As geopolitical tensions rise, Taipei aims to expand its democratic partnerships and reinforce its international presence.
