The strong relations between Taiwan and the EU are based on the shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, and the government is committed to further enhancing these ties, Vice President Chen Chien-jen said Nov. 29.
Chen made the remarks while meeting with a delegation led by Bas Belder, member of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group in the European Parliament. The dignitaries are visiting Taiwan Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 to gain a better understanding of economic and political developments in Taiwan, as well as cross-strait and Taiwan-EU relations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The delegation is scheduled to meet with Legislative Yuan President Su Jia-chyuan and visit the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan, Mainland Affairs Council and Ministry of Economic Affairs.
Citing a report released Sept. 13 by the European Commission, Chen noted that the EU is preparing to launch investment negotiations with Taiwan. He said the commission’s report underscores Europe’s readiness for enhanced collaboration.
Taiwan anticipates the establishment of bilateral investment agreements with the EU, Chen said, adding that such pacts will help European businesses expand into Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region, strengthen investment protection, facilitate increased investment in Europe by local companies as well as create more job opportunities.
The vice president also spoke of the importance of peace and stability in the East and South China seas, noting that this is beneficial to the region and the nations of Europe. Chen added that he hopes the EU will support Taiwan as an equal partner in global efforts to resolve conflicts and maintain peace and security.
Regarding cross-strait relations, Chen reaffirmed the ROC government’s commitment to extending goodwill and safeguarding the stable development of ties. He said the nation’s position on the matter will not change, nor will there be a return to the old path of confrontation or yielding to pressure.
According to the MOFA, the EU is Taiwan’s fifth largest trading partner, while Taiwan is the EU’s seventh largest trading partner in Asia, with bilateral trade totaling US$49 billion in 2016. The ministry added that European enterprises are Taiwan’s largest source of foreign investment, which reached US$43.3 billion as of the end of September 2017. (KWS-E)
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