Taipei: Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed support for Taiwan, calling for the United Kingdom and other Western democracies to strengthen economic relations with the island due to increasing pressure from Beijing.

According to Focus Taiwan, Johnson delivered his remarks at the annual Ketagalan Forum in Taipei, highlighting Taiwan’s technological achievements, which he attributed to its democratic society and respect for the rule of law. Johnson, who served as the U.K. Prime Minister from July 2019 to September 2022, emphasized Taiwan’s role in the global technology sector, particularly its production of advanced semiconductors, which he deemed “vital” to the world.

Johnson criticized Beijing’s “intimidating and aggressive measures” towards Taiwan, which include intensified military activities, describing them as attempts to “bully Taiwan into submission.” He urged Western countries not to be “cowed by our desire to be deferential to Beijing” and encouraged expanding economic partnerships with Taipei.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) confirmed Johnson’s visit to Taiwan, where he is scheduled to meet with President Lai Ching-te and former President Tsai Ing-wen. Johnson’s visit marks his first trip to the island, and his comments come at a time when Taiwan is looking to increase its defense spending to over 3 percent of GDP in response to regional threats.

During the security forum organized by MOFA, President Lai also emphasized the importance of economic cooperation among democracies to strengthen global democratic supply chains and foster economic prosperity. He reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering its civil defense and defense capabilities in light of the challenges posed by China’s actions.

Johnson’s visit and remarks underline the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region and the strategic importance of Taiwan’s technological industry to the global economy.