Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chih-chung Wu said the government is fully determined to defend Taiwan’s democratic way of life and enhance the country’s strategic value.
Wu made the remarks during an online interview with Régis Soubrouillard for an article published Feb. 14 in Paris-based weekly magazine Challenges.
According to the deputy minister, despite a lack of official ties, Taiwan is committed to expanding relations with its global partners based on shared interests in innovation, trade, technical cooperation and respect for democratic values.
Wu said the U.S. is an important supporter of Taiwan, with Washington set to continue its arms sales, high-level exchanges, trade and economic cooperation with Taiwan. The U.S. sees Taiwan as part of a broader strategic framework to keep the Indo-Pacific safe from China’s threats, he said, adding that the two sides are also in discussions about supply chain issues, especially in the semiconductor sector.
Taiwan keeps a watchful eye on China’s multiple threat strategies and remains prepared for any possible situations, Wu said, adding that the people will not waver in their resolution to defend their democratic institutions. A confrontation in the Taiwan Strait would impact the entire world, and China would pay a costly price for invading Taiwan, the deputy minister said.
Wu also said the EU is aware of the risk of its economic reliance on China and is taking a tougher stance against Beijing, while countries like Lithuania, Czechia and Slovakia have publicly voiced support for Taiwan despite pressure from Beijing.
At a time when Europe looks to ensure the security of its supply chains, the deputy minister said Taiwan is leveraging the strategic asset of its semiconductor prowess to expand investment in Europe. The country is also enhancing cooperation and exchanges with France in semiconductors, artificial intelligence and energy transitions, Wu added. (SFC-E)
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