Camilla Jessen
China has sharply condemned European countries following Taiwan’s announcement.
China has reacted strongly after Taiwan announced it is ready to be a “trusted partner of Europe” and to help “rebuild global supply chains” in cooperation with its democratic allies.
Beijing warned European countries to “respect their political commitments to China.”
Taiwan’s Message
At the Warsaw Security Forum, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung emphasized the island’s capabilities in advanced semiconductors and electronics.
He said Taiwan is prepared to assist European industrial leaders in strengthening their positions and becoming leaders in their sectors.
Increase Investments
According to Digi24, Lin also encouraged countries to increase investment in Taiwan and promote policies that welcome more Taiwanese companies.
Supply Chain Independence
Highlighting the challenges posed by the “alliance of authoritarian regimes,” Lin said Taiwan aims to work with its partners to create supply chains independent of China, ensuring the survival of industries and the continuity of democracy.
“Europe’s security and Taiwan’s are closely linked. This is the time for both to stand together, building a solid alliance based on shared values and stopping the spread of authoritarianism,” he said.
He also expressed hope that cooperation could expand beyond technology into cultural exchange.
European Tour
Lin arrived in Poland on September 27 and has also visited the Czech Republic, Italy, and Austria.
While only the Vatican maintains official diplomatic relations with Taiwan in Europe, several countries in Central and Eastern Europe have strengthened ties with Taipei, especially following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
His visit to Poland is seen as potentially straining Beijing’s relations with EU partners, as China opposes high-level Taiwanese contacts with countries that recognize the People’s Republic of China.
China’s Warning to Europe
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun accused Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of spreading “separatist falsehoods” during visits to certain countries.
“Some Western politicians, out of selfish interests, insist on carrying out official contacts with Taiwan, which inevitably undermines bilateral mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation. We call on the countries concerned to abide by their political commitments to China,” Guo said during a press conference.
Increased Chinese Military Activity
Taiwan reported that over 30 Chinese military aircraft operated near the island within 24 hours following Lin’s remarks.
According to the Ministry of Defense, 33 aircraft flew in the region between 6:00 a.m. on Monday and 6:00 a.m. Tuesday local time.
Of these, 23 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in northern, central, and southwestern areas, without entering sovereign airspace.
Types of Aircraft and Operations
The incursions included J-16 fighter jets, JH-7 bombers, KJ-500 early warning aircraft, and drones, coordinated with Chinese warships under the guise of “joint combat training patrols.”
“They carried out harassment actions in the maritime and air areas around Taiwan,” the ministry stated.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
