President Lai Ching-te delivered a speech via video for the “2025 Annual Meeting of the European Taiwanese Associations Federation.” The President stated that Taiwan and Europe are currently facing the threat of authoritarian expansion. Although geographically distant, Taiwan and Europe maintain close exchanges in terms of ideas, values, and economic and trade relations. He pledged to continue efforts to lead Taiwan onto the global stage while enabling Taiwanese enterprises to establish themselves locally, expand internationally, and market worldwide.
The Presidential Office issued a press release in the evening, stating that the European Taiwanese Associations hold annual meetings to strengthen ties among Taiwanese living in Europe, connect political figures from various countries, and exert influence. Participants speak out and advocate for Taiwan, raising its international visibility. The President expressed his sincere gratitude on behalf of all Taiwanese people.
President Lai explained that this year’s annual meeting theme is “Taiwan’s Soft Power: When Cultural Promotion Becomes a Political Practice.” Through documentary screenings and keynote speeches, attendees gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s rich and diverse culture, as well as how culture connects Taiwan with other countries and deepens mutual interactions.
He noted that many international friends and representatives from the European Parliament have visited Taiwan and witnessed its development of freedom and democracy. Beyond shared universal values, Taiwan plays a key role in maintaining world peace. Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential for global security and prosperity.
The threat of authoritarian expansion
The President emphasized that both Taiwan and Europe face the threat of authoritarian expansion, which not only attempts to infiltrate democracies and violate human rights but also interferes with critical infrastructure, including submarine cables, networks, and energy systems. Furthermore, the rise of artificial intelligence brings new challenges to industries, supply chains, and government regulation.
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He pointed out that Taiwan is working to strengthen societal resilience and counter-infiltration under the framework and spirit of democratic rule of law, protecting cherished daily life. Taiwan is willing to share experiences in responding to these challenges and will confidently safeguard peace in the Taiwan Strait with steadfast democratic beliefs and active defense policies. Taiwan will also leverage its strong economy and technological capabilities to collaborate with the global democratic camp, contributing more to world peace and prosperity.
President Lai stated that although Taiwan and Europe are geographically distant, they maintain close exchanges in ideas, values, and trade relations. Notably, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim attended the IPAC annual meeting at the European Parliament this month, conveying Taiwan’s democratic voice and further strengthening Taiwan-Europe relations.
He took the opportunity to express special gratitude for the support of friends across Europe. The development of Taiwan-Europe relations relies not only on diplomatic personnel and international friends but also on the efforts of overseas Taiwanese. Everyone serves as a top ambassador for Taiwan, tirelessly advancing Taiwan’s presence on the global stage.
President Lai emphasized that he will continue leading Taiwan toward the world, enabling businesses to grow locally and expand globally.
