Taiwan is not alone, has more and more friends around the world, and will continue to show its resolve to the world, Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Pei-chim said Sunday after returning from a historic diplomatic trip to Europe.
While Taiwan’s foreign ministers sometimes visit Europe and other parts of the world that do not have formal relations with Chinese-claimed Taipei, it is rare for a senior official such as the vice president to do so, given the risk of a backlash from Beijing against the host nation. Hsiao spoke before the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China’s annual summit, held at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Hsiao, speaking at the airport upon his return home, said Taiwan’s international situation was very difficult but Taiwan never backed down, because it should have the opportunity to participate in the international community.
“Taiwan is not alone. We have more and more like-minded friends around the world who want to walk with us,” she said. “We will continue with confidence, realism and resolute steps to demonstrate Taiwan’s resolve, good faith and the strength of our democracy to the world.”
China refuses to talk to President Lai Ching-te and his administration, saying he is a “separatist.”
China’s mission to the European Union condemned Hsiao’s visit, saying it represents serious interference in China’s internal affairs, and severely undermines the mutual political trust between China and the European Union.
China considers democratically ruled Taiwan its territory and has never renounced the use of force for “reunification” with the island. Taiwan’s government says it has the right to deal with other countries, and that China has no right to claim the island or dictate Taipei’s actions.
Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is visiting Berlin to address a conference this week.
Tsai wrote on her Facebook page late Saturday before her departure that Hsiao’s going to Brussels was of “great significance for Taiwan.” “As President Lai Ching-te said, Taiwan stands as a reliable partner in the international community. We will stand firm with Europe and other like-minded partners.”
(Tags for translation)Taiwan
