Taiwan, EU both face threats of 'external infiltration'

22/7/2025 14:01

Taiwan and the European Union share the same values of freedom and democracy, but both also face similar threats from "external infiltration", President Lai Ching-te told visiting European lawmakers on Tuesday.



Taiwan views the EU as one of its most important like-minded democratic partners, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, and the bloc has had to balance its support for the Chinese-claimed island with relations with Beijing, which views Taiwan as its own territory.



China confirmed on Monday it will hold a top-level summit with the EU in Beijing this week marking 50 years of diplomatic ties as both sides seek to navigate trade disputes amid broader global trade uncertainties.



Lai, meeting members of the European Parliament's Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield at the presidential office in Taipei, said Taiwan and the EU not only have close economic and trade ties, but also share the values of democracy and freedom.