Taiwan's President Lai Pushes for EU Economic Partnership, Strengthening Ties

President Lai advocates for an Economic Partnership Agreement with the EU, fostering economic security and global cooperation.

President William Lai (賴清德) of Taiwan has urged the European Parliament to endorse an economic partnership agreement (EPA) between Taiwan and the EU, emphasizing the benefits for both parties, particularly in enhancing economic security. This call for closer ties was made during a meeting in Taipei with European Parliament members Reinis Poznaks and Beatrice Timgren.

President Lai highlighted the complementary strengths of Taiwan and the EU, particularly in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and green energy. He emphasized that through collaborative efforts, they could create more resilient democratic supply chains, contributing to global prosperity and development.

President William Lai, right, presents a painting to Guam Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero during their meeting at the Presidential Office in Taipei.

Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office

This call for an EPA follows the ongoing efforts of Taiwan to deepen its economic and trade relationships with Europe. The European Parliament has voiced support for such an agreement, although the European Commission's stance remains cautious.

During the meeting, President Lai also expressed gratitude for the European Parliament's resolutions reaffirming support for Taiwan amidst China's "provocative military actions." He also acknowledged Taiwan's recognition as a key democratic partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

President William Lai, right, and European Parliament member Reinis Poznaks, left, raise their mugs during their meeting at the Presidential Office in Taipei.

Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office

Poznaks, drawing from Latvia's experience with its "large, aggressive neighbor," expressed solidarity with Taiwan, highlighting the importance of democracies uniting to defend the rule of law. He noted the use of similar tactics, such as disinformation attacks, by China and Russia, and stressed that it is “crucial for all democracies around the world to stick together and protect our freedoms, values and democracy.”

Timgren echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of close ties between democratic nations in the face of authoritarian threats, adding that such a demonstration of unity would be “part of [our] defense.”

The European Parliament members also planned to meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍), as well as representatives from the legislature, civil society groups, and think tanks, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Separately, President Lai also advocated for increased cooperation during a meeting with a delegation led by Guam Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero, who was on a week-long visit to Taiwan. He stated, "The world is rapidly changing and tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to rise, but if we combine our strengths, come together as one and enhance cooperation, we can maintain peace, stability and prosperity in our region." President Lai further expressed Taiwan's interest in strengthening economic ties and exploring opportunities for industrial cooperation with Guam and the US.