Taiwan’s Legislative Speaker You Si-kun (游錫堃) met with a visiting delegation of Spanish lawmakers on Wednesday. This is the first parliamentary-level Spanish delegation to visit Taiwan since the end of 2019.
Leading the delegation is Congress of Deputies Health Commission head Rosa Romero Sánchez. The Congress of Deputies is the Spanish parliament’s lower house.
You said at the meeting that Spain and Taiwan share a historical connection. Spain briefly ruled northern Taiwan almost four centuries ago. The Spanish left behind pieces of material history like Fort San Domingo, now in New Taipei’s Tamsui District.
You added that Taiwan and Spain share a history of democratic reforms following a period of autocratic rule. He says that is why the two countries are strongly attached to democratic values.
Romero Sánchez says the Congress of Deputies passed a Proposition of Law in October last year. The document states the congress’ opposition to any unilateral change of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. It also urges China and Taiwan to develop their relationship through dialogue.
Romera adds that she hopes this visit will strengthen the economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between Spain and Taiwan.
The delegation arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday and will stay until Saturday. The group is also scheduled to meet with Vice Premier Shen Jong-chin (沈榮津) and Deputy Foreign Minister Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明諺).