2021-10-22
European Parliament Approves "EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation" Report
In response to the European Parliament's (EP) recent approval of the "EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation" report, DPP Spokesperson Peifen Hsieh expresses her gratitude. The report is the Parliament's first official statement on Taiwan-Europe relations. It represents an increase in European popular support for Taiwan and symbolizes a major breakthrough for relations between Taiwan and Europe.
The Spokesperson stated that, as the EP cast its votes, 580 members voted in favor of the report, 26 in opposition, and 66 abstained. The report's wide approval margin, and its more than 30 proposals promoting Taiwan-European relations, demonstrate European support for Taiwan. Further, the proposal to change the name of the EU's "European Economic and Trade Office in Taipei" to the "EU Office in Taiwan" underscores the EP's commitment to strengthening Taiwan-Europe relations.
In addition, the EP expressed concern regarding the Chinese military threat to Taiwan and called for China to cease its ongoing harassment of the country. As a result of her support, Swedish European Parliament Member Evin Incir received a threatening letter from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Sweden. The letter demanded MEP Incir withdraw her support of the pro-Taiwan report, yet she refused. MEP Incir stated that she would vote for the report "in defense of freedom and democracy." In response, Spokesperson Hsieh commended the MEPs' rejection of Chinese intimidation and their support of Taiwan. Their courage exemplifies Taiwan-Europe friendship and the two's shared belief in freedom and democracy. Moreover, this pro-Taiwan report unites Taiwan and Europe so that, together, the two are ready to face future challenges.
Spokesperson Hsieh added, "virtue never stands alone; it is bound to have neighbors." She emphasized that regarding democratic governance, epidemic prevention, economic development, and more, Taiwan has received the recognition and support of other like-minded countries. Indeed, the EP's most recent report is a milestone representing the strength of European support for Taiwan. The DPP cherishes its friendship with Europe and will strive to serve as a crucial Indo-Pacific trade and security partner for the EU.
