The House of Representatives of the Netherlands passed a pro-Taiwan motion on Tuesday calling for support of Taiwan’s investment agreement negotiations with major European countries. The Foreign Ministry welcomed the development, noting that this marks the fourth pro-Taiwan resolution passed in the Netherlands this year.
The motion, led by D66 (Democrats 66) Parliamentarian Jan Paternotte, a co-chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), urges the Dutch government to support formal investment negotiations between Taiwan and key European nations. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry highlighted how strengthening relations with Taiwan serves the Netherlands’ interests, particularly given their semiconductor industry; it also hosts Europe’s largest port.
These developments underscore the importance of diplomacy between the two nations, especially in light of China's escalating threats. The potential economic losses from a conflict could exceed the combined impacts of the financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. By enhancing economic ties with Taiwan, Europe can clearly communicate its desire to maintain the status quo with China.
The Foreign Ministry pointed out that this resolution is part of a broader trend of Dutch parliamentary support. Previous motions have supported Taiwan’s international participation, called for joint international responses to Chinese military exercises, and addressed Taiwan’s representation in international forums. A recent official parliamentary delegation visit to Taiwan in October further evidences these deepening bilateral ties.