Taiwan is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to rally support from European Union (EU) nations in urging China to exercise restraint in its dealings with the island. In an interview with DW and other media outlets, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, stated that his recent visit to Europe aimed to garner more European voices in cautioning against China’s aggression and emphasizing the significance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Wu highlighted the close economic ties between Taiwan and Europe, urging EU governments to comprehend the potential global impact of any aggression against Taiwan.
When asked about the actions the EU could take to deter Chinese aggression, Wu acknowledged recent statements from EU officials emphasizing peace, stability, and opposition to unilateral changes in the status quo as powerful gestures. He expressed his belief that if the EU maintained a consistent and resolute stance, it would deter China’s aggression, conveying a clear message that such actions would not be welcomed by European countries.
China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, had warned EU officials against meeting with Wu during his visit. Although the EU does not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it pursues “friendly relations” with the island’s government. When asked about Wu’s visit, a European Commission spokesperson stated that they could not confirm any official meetings between EU representatives and the Taiwanese visitor.
Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang recently warned that China reserved the right to take necessary measures to achieve “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan, emphasizing that no other country had the right to interfere in what China considers the “Taiwan question.” In contrast, US President Joe Biden has assured Taiwan of support from US forces in the event of an unprecedented attack from China. However, the European Union’s position remains uncertain.
According to a survey conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations, the majority of respondents across 11 EU countries expressed a preference for their countries to remain neutral in the event of a conflict between the United States and China over Taiwan. The survey revealed that 60% of Germans polled favoured neutrality, while only 23% preferred Berlin to support Washington. In response to the survey findings, Wu acknowledged that European countries had traditionally contemplated strategic neutrality in international affairs, but he believed this stance might change as global realities evolve.
Wu described the efforts to persuade the European Union to provide greater support to Taiwan as challenging but necessary work. In addition to seeking political support, Taiwan is also aiming to unlock progress on a bilateral investment agreement with the EU. Despite the EU having trade relations independent of China with Taiwan, Wu expressed concern that progress on the EU-Taiwan investment deal might be hindered as the EU deliberates on a trade and investment agreement with China known as the CAI, which has remained stalled since 2021.
The European Union considers Taiwan an important economic partner in the region, and regular economic dialogues are held between Taipei and Brussels. However, no formal progress has been made toward a deal since 2015, when Taiwan was included on a list of potential partners for negotiations. An EU official clarified that negotiating a Bilateral Investment Agreement with Taiwan was currently not under consideration.
Taiwan plays a critical role in the production of advanced semiconductors, accounting for 90% of the world’s supply. These semiconductors are vital for various industries, including automotive manufacturing and medical devices. The EU aims to bolster chip manufacturing within its member states and has unveiled plans to facilitate subsidies for producers. As part of this endeavour, the Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. (TSMC) is contemplating establishing its first European plant in Germany.
When questioned about potential political considerations before approving such a plan, Wu stated that Taiwan had not placed any conditions on investments in the United States, Japan, or Europe. He emphasized that if Europe provided positive incentives and assured favourable results for TSMC’s investment, the Taiwanese government would not impede the company’s investment in Europe. However, Wu underscored the need for broader and improved relations with Taiwan, beyond just seeking assistance during chip shortages.
The EU maintains a “one China policy,” recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government of China. While engaging with Taiwan as a significant economic and high-tech partner, the EU refrains from acknowledging Taiwan’s statehood.
