Deputy Foreign Minister François Wu (吳志中) welcomed U.K. parliamentarian Tom Tugendhat and his delegation on Tuesday. Tugendhat, the former U.K. Minister of State for Security, is visiting Taiwan for the first time and arrived last Sunday. During their meeting, Wu and Tugendhat discussed key issues including the Taiwan Strait, Indo-Pacific regional security, and Taiwan-U.K. economic and trade cooperation
Wu thanked Tugendhat for his steadfast support of Taiwan's freedom and democracy. He expressed gratitude to the U.K. and other like-minded nations for sending naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating the region's importance for global security and prosperity. Wu added that Taiwan remains committed to enhancing its defense capabilities amidst regional challenges.
With the U.K. becoming a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Wu expressed hopes for continued support regarding Taiwan's international participation. He says Taiwan plays a pivotal role in the global semiconductor supply chain and is dedicated to deepening partnerships with democratic nations to build resilient supply chains. He says Taiwan can contribute to a free, open, and high-standard global trade system.
In response, Tugendhat emphasized the need for united efforts among democratic nations to counter authoritarian threats and maintain regional stability. He says he is optimistic about expanding cooperation between Taiwan and the U.K. in trade, technology, and education.