Taiwan Urges Europe to Consider Better Relations Amidst Microchip Demands

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, has emphasized the importance of Europe acknowledging Taiwan’s desire for improved relations, particularly as European countries like Germany seek advanced microchip-making technologies from the island. Wu questioned the incentives offered by Europe to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and urged European nations to ensure a favorable environment that would encourage TSMC’s investment in Europe. He highlighted the strong partnership between Taiwan and like-minded countries such as Japan and the United States, contrasting it with the need for a broader and more positive approach to relations with Taiwan from other countries.

Wu’s comments carry an underlying criticism directed at Germany, referencing a previous request from the German Economy Minister to intervene in TSMC’s reduced supply to the German auto industry. During his trip to Europe, Wu aimed to secure diplomatic support for Taiwan among European leaders, welcoming the EU’s calls for China to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. However, challenges remain in engaging with Europe, as concerns about retaliation from Beijing have stalled negotiations for a bilateral investment agreement (BIA) between Taiwan and the EU. Wu stressed the need for the EU to explore alternative measures to strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations, independent of the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) with China.

While diplomatic protocol limits the disclosure of specific details about Wu’s meetings and their locations, he expressed optimism that the EU’s stance would evolve. He highlighted the moral responsibility of countries and leaders not to remain neutral in the face of potential Chinese aggression towards Taiwan or violations of international laws. Wu believes that it will be challenging for Europe to disregard such atrocities and stressed the need for the international community to prioritize fundamental principles when considering conflicts between major powers.