Full Breakdown
Taiwan's Vice President Advocates for Stronger EU Ties Amid Chinese Threats
11/8/2025, 8:09:27 PM
Taiwan's Diplomatic Outreach in Europe
On November 7, 2025, Taiwan's Vice President Bi-Khim Hsiao delivered a significant address at the European Parliament in Brussels, urging the European Union (EU) to enhance security, trade, and technological cooperation with Taiwan. This visit marks a notable step in Taiwan's diplomatic outreach, particularly as it faces increasing military pressure from China, which claims the self-governing island as part of its territory.
Hsiao's speech occurred during the annual summit of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), a coalition of lawmakers focused on addressing challenges posed by Beijing. She emphasized that "peace in the Taiwan Strait is essential to global stability and economic continuity," highlighting the need for international opposition to any unilateral changes to the status quo by force. Hsiao's remarks resonated with the audience, drawing a standing ovation from approximately 50 lawmakers from around two dozen countries.
Context of Rising Tensions
China's military activities around Taiwan have intensified in recent years, with frequent joint drills involving warships and fighter jets. In response to these threats, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has committed to increasing defense spending to 5% of Taiwan's GDP by 2030 and accelerating the development of the air defense system known as "T-Dome." Hsiao's visit comes amid these heightened security concerns and reflects Taiwan's determination to assert its sovereignty on the international stage.
Official Responses and Criticism
China's reaction to Hsiao's visit was swift and critical. The Chinese mission to the EU condemned the trip as a violation of the "one-China" principle, asserting that it undermines political trust between China and the EU. Hsiao's government, however, maintains that Taiwan has the right to engage with other nations and that only the island's 23 million residents can determine their future.
Ben Bland, director of the Asia-Pacific program at Chatham House, noted that despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, the EU and Taiwan could significantly benefit from deeper ties, especially in the context of the ongoing U.S.-China rivalry. He warned that any conflict over Taiwan could have far-reaching implications for Europe, particularly given Taiwan's critical role in semiconductor and electronics supply chains.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Peace in the Taiwan Strait is essential to global stability and economic continuity,” — Bi-Khim Hsiao, Vice President of Taiwan
- “Europe has defended freedom under fire. And Taiwan has defended democracy under pressure,” — Bi-Khim Hsiao, Vice President of Taiwan
- “Despite being excluded from international organisations, Taiwan has stepped up. We contribute to humanitarian aid. We uphold global standards even when we are not allowed a seat at the table,” — Bi-Khim Hsiao, Vice President of Taiwan
What's Next for Taiwan and the EU?
Taiwan's diplomatic efforts are expected to continue, with former President Tsai Ing-wen scheduled to visit Berlin for a conference shortly after Hsiao's address. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has also been active in Europe, visiting several countries to strengthen relations and establish a Europe task force aimed at enhancing cooperation. As Taiwan navigates its complex relationship with China, its outreach to Europe may play a crucial role in shaping its international standing and security strategy.
