by N. Peter Kramer
On September 3, in a recorded speech during a seminar at the European Parliament (EP) President Tsai Ing-wen called on European countries to support Taiwan in the face of China’s increased actions against the nation’s democracy, economy and international space.
Organised by the European Federation of Taiwanese Associations, the forum was titled “China Factor: Resistance is Futile? — Taiwan as a Case Study” and attended by MEPs and scholars.
China’s rise is rapidly challenging the rule-based order that has sustained East Asia since the end of World War II, Tsai said.
“A liberal democratic order can only survive if like-minded countries, including our European partners, work together for the greater good”.
According to the president, China is forcing countries to choose sides as it promotes an alternative global order based on its interests.
Though not alone in facing this situation, Taiwan is on the front-lines of Beijing’s efforts, she said, adding that the country remains resilient and determined to safeguard its democracy.
Overcoming this challenge will require all like-minded countries to defend shared principles by displaying the same spirit that led to the founding of a union across Europe in 1951, Tsai said.
“At this critical juncture in human history, Taiwan understands better than any other country in the world how important it is that those values survive.”
By: N. Peter Kramer
