Full Breakdown
European Parliamentary Staffers Visit Taiwan for EVIP Exchange on Democracy and Digital Governance
8/16/2026, 9:19:39 PM
Taiwan Hosts European Parliamentary Delegation Under EVIP Program
Parliamentary staffers from twelve European nations—Austria, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Montenegro, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia and the United Kingdom—are in Taiwan for a week-long exchange organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund. The visit marks the second EVIP (European Valued Important Partnership) delegation of the year, focusing on democratic governance, resilience and digital government.
Program Focus and Activities
The delegation’s itinerary emphasizes digital governance, with scheduled visits to Taiwanese government agencies and private sector organizations. Participants include officials from European representative offices, lawmakers’ staff across party lines, academics and nonprofit representatives. The program is designed to deepen practical cooperation on technology, economic policy and security matters.
Statements from Taiwanese Officials and Delegation Leader
Wu highlighted Taiwan’s recent economic performance, citing nearly 14 percent growth in the first quarter of 2026 and the nation’s stock market ranking as the world’s fifth-largest by market capitalization. He attributed part of the semiconductor sector’s success to long-term collaboration with European partners, especially the Netherlands, France, Germany and Belgium.
Delegation leader Matej Števove (also reported as Matej Stevove) said the visitors share a commitment to democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law. He urged Europe to strengthen cooperation with Taiwan on economic, technological and security issues, praising Taiwan’s democratic resilience.
Economic and Technological Context
Taiwan’s semiconductor industry remains a cornerstone of its economy, with European cooperation cited as a key factor in sustaining growth. The EVIP focus on digital governance aligns with Taiwan’s broader strategy to leverage its tech strengths while reinforcing democratic institutions.
Implications for Taiwan-Europe Relations
Both sides view the exchange as an opportunity to counteract authoritarian influence that seeks to reshape the international order through economic coercion. By expanding partnerships in digital governance and technology, the EVIP program aims to solidify a network of democratic allies and enhance Taiwan’s strategic standing in Europe.
