A high-ranking EU lawmaker on Wednesday expressed concern over China's attempts to unilaterally change the status quo in the region during a meeting with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, promising her the European bloc's support for the self-ruled democratic island.
Nicola Beer, one of the vice presidents of the European Parliament, echoed Tsai's contention that Taiwan stands on the front lines to defend democracy and that it and the European Union should work closely together against the expansion of authoritarianism.
Beer, who with her delegation arrived Tuesday for what Taiwan described as "the first official visit" by a member of the European legislature of her rank, said the European Union wants to maintain sound relations with China.
"But let me express clearly Europe's deep and serious concern about China moving in a direction that can unilaterally alter the status quo," said Beer, a German member of the legislature who is on a three-day visit.
While supporting Taiwan's bid to increase participation in the international community and its plan to sign an agreement with the European Union aimed at boosting trade and investment, Beer urged China to ease tensions across the Taiwan Strait through dialogue.
Tsai thanked Beer for speaking up for Taiwan in the European Parliament and playing a key role in passing some 20 resolutions in support of the island since January last year.
Tsai expressed hope to deepen relations with European countries and strengthen cooperation to jointly create what she called "a resilient democratic alliance."
In November last year, the European Parliament sent its first official delegation to Taiwan, with the head of the group, Raphael Glucksmann, telling Tsai that Europe stands with Taiwan and wants to elevate bilateral relations to "the most senior levels."
