Taipei:A European Parliament member has delivered a joint statement to President Lai Ching-te, underscoring the enduring friendship between Taiwan and Europe, signed by over 30 European lawmakers.

According to Focus Taiwan, Rihards Kols, a Latvian MEP from the National Alliance, presented the statement to President Lai at the Presidential Office. The statement was issued during the Formosa Club's annual meeting on October 24, a group comprising European and Canadian lawmakers aiming to bolster relations with Taiwan.

Kols highlighted that the statement addresses challenges faced by democratic societies, such as military intimidation, economic coercion, disinformation, and cross-border repression. He emphasized that despite differing histories and responsibilities, democratic societies, including Taiwan, share a common interest in ensuring their autonomy in international relations and trade.

The statement further outlines potential areas of collaboration between Taiwan and Europe, focusing on developing trusted supply chains for artificial intelligence, drones, advanced semiconductors, and other critical technologies. It also reiterates support for Taiwan's RISK initiative aimed at safeguarding undersea cables.

President Lai expressed appreciation for the Formosa Club members' actions in support of Taiwan, including advocacy at international forums and legislative measures. He acknowledged European lawmakers' vigilance towards China's authoritarian expansionism and emphasized the interconnected security implications for both Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.

Lai reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to increasing defense spending and enhancing cooperation with fellow democracies, particularly in developing resilient supply chains for critical technologies.