Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lin Chia-lung, has successfully concluded a diplomatic tour of Lithuania, Poland, and Belgium, reinforcing Taiwan-Europe cooperation on democracy, technology, and trade. The trip, which began on November 16, included meetings with key European lawmakers, business leaders, and defense officials, as well as significant progress in the semiconductor and drone industries.

Strengthening Ties with European Lawmakers

During the visit, Lin met prominent supporters of Taiwan, including Michael Gahler, Chairman of the European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group, Ruslanas Baranovas, Chairman of Lithuania-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group, and Krzysztof Truskolaski, head of the Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group. These discussions emphasized shared democratic values and opportunities for mutual collaboration.

Boosting Semiconductor and Drone Industry Collaboration

In Belgium, Lin visited the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (IMEC) in Leuven, where he engaged with CEO Luc Van den hove to explore Taiwan-Europe partnerships in strengthening semiconductor supply chain resilience.

Additionally, Lin led the Taiwan Excellence Drone International Business Opportunities Alliance to the Drone Industry Business Forum in Vilnius, Lithuania. Over 200 participants from 60 companies across Taiwan, Lithuania, and other European nations attended the event. The forum resulted in two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to develop democratic supply chains for uncrewed aerial vehicles, highlighting Taiwan and Lithuania's shared commitment to cutting-edge industries.

Advancing Economic Cooperation

Lin's visit to Poland included attending the Taiwan-Poland Economic Cooperation Conference in Warsaw and witnessing an MOU signing in Lodz between the Taiwan-Poland Chamber of Commerce and the Polish-Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The agreements aim to enhance economic and trade relations through collaborative initiatives with the Polish Chamber of Commerce.

Humanitarian and Smart City Initiatives for Ukraine

In Warsaw, Lin oversaw Taiwan’s donation of US$10 million worth of aid to Ukraine, including 2,600 laptops for schoolchildren and electric generators to support cities grappling with energy shortages. Furthermore, an MOU was signed between Chunghwa Telecom and the city of Bucha to implement 5G and smart city technologies, showcasing Taiwan’s commitment to leveraging innovation for humanitarian support.

Commitment to Integrated Diplomacy

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized Taiwan’s strategy of integrated diplomacy to bolster democratic resilience, foster reciprocal alliances, and expand economic and trade ties. Lin’s trip not only solidified relationships with European allies but also showcased Taiwan's leadership in advancing shared democratic values and economic collaboration.