Under CCP Pressure, Taiwan Hosts Record-Breaking Foreign Parliamentary Delegation

Jul 30, 2024

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te welcomed the largest-ever delegation of foreign parliamentarians to visit Taiwan, signaling growing international support for the island. Despite significant pressure from Beijing, this visit highlights the increasing determination of democratic nations to stand against authoritarian expansion.

Speaking at the “Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China” (IPAC) conference in Taipei, Lai emphasized the need for democratic countries to unite in the face of threats from authoritarian regimes. He stated, “This gathering symbolizes the international community’s steadfast support and recognition of Taiwan. Protecting democracy requires unity, and we must stand together.”

IPAC, composed of hundreds of legislators from multiple countries, held its inaugural meeting in Taiwan, attracting representatives from 23 countries and the European Parliament. Notable attendees included Australian Senator Deborah O’Neill, Czech Member of Parliament Eva Dekrova, and Vice Chairman of the French Senate’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee Olivier Cadic.

In recent years, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has intensified efforts to diplomatically and economically isolate Taiwan. Since Lai Ching-te took office in May, Beijing has ramped up military exercises aimed at intimidating Taiwan and expressing its dissatisfaction. CCP officials also pressured foreign parliamentarians not to attend the IPAC conference, a move condemned by IPAC as an infringement on democratic rights.

In his speech, Lai reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to working with democratic allies to maintain regional stability and counter Beijing’s coercive tactics. He stated, “Any threat from China is a threat to the entire world.” He accused Beijing of engaging in “diplomatic kidnapping, economic coercion, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns” to undermine regional stability.

During the conference, Taiwan formally joined IPAC, with Taiwanese legislators Fan Yun and Chen Jau-hsian appointed as co-chairs. Additionally, six new countries joined the alliance, further strengthening IPAC’s influence. Despite CCP criticism of IPAC’s credibility, the alliance continues to grow, reflecting the global commitment to countering CCP influence.

Lai highlighted Taiwan’s strategic position on the frontlines of democracy, resolutely defending democratic values and regional peace. He mentioned ongoing military modernization efforts and partnerships with countries like the United States, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, which are crucial to enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities.

The United States has been a key partner to Taiwan, recently approving the sale of advanced weapons and support systems to the island. However, the upcoming U.S. presidential election brings uncertainty to future American commitments. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump recently suggested that Taiwan should pay for U.S. protection, raising questions about whether he would defend Taiwan in the face of CCP aggression.

Amid increasingly frequent military activities and legal threats from the CCP, Taiwan has urged its citizens to avoid traveling to mainland China and its semi-autonomous regions. The situation remains tense, with CCP aircraft and ships frequently entering Taiwan’s airspace and waters.

Lai Ching-te’s administration continues to advocate for peace and dialogue, aiming to replace confrontation with cooperation based on the principles of reciprocity and dignity. Taiwan’s approach underscores its resolve to maintain stability and sovereignty in the face of CCP assertions.

As Taiwan stands firm under external pressure, its efforts to strengthen international partnerships and defense capabilities demonstrate a broader commitment to upholding democratic principles in the face of authoritarian challenges. The IPAC conference in Taipei is a testament to the global resolve to support Taiwan’s democratic path and counter CCP authoritarian ambitions.

(This article references reporting from the Associated Press)