Taiwan’s Vice President Bi-Khim Hsiao has called on the European Union to strengthen its support for Taiwan’s democracy as Beijing continues to intensify political and military pressure on the island.

Speaking at the European Parliament during a session of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), Vice President Hsiao underscored the need for global solidarity in defending democratic values and resisting coercion.

“We stand not only for Taiwan’s freedom but for the principles of democracy and human dignity that unite us all,” Hsiao said.

This marks Hsiao’s first address to the European Parliament as a senior Taiwanese official a significant step in Taipei’s efforts to deepen ties with European partners amid China’s diplomatic isolation campaign.

She was accompanied by Foreign Minister Ling Jialong on a visit that was not publicly disclosed in advance due to security considerations.

Luke de Pulford, executive director of IPAC, described the visit as “a strong signal of international backing for Taiwan’s democracy,” emphasizing that European engagement is vital in ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit comes as tensions remain high across the Taiwan Strait, with Beijing continuing to increase its military presence near Taiwan.