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

According to Focus Taiwan, Rihards Kols, a Latvian MEP from the National Alliance, presented the statement at the Presidential Office, originating from the annual meeting of the Formosa Club, which aims to foster relations with Taiwan.

Kols emphasized the statement's focus on the challenges faced by democratic societies, such as military intimidation and economic coercion. He noted the shared interest of Taiwan and Europe in ensuring that global threats do not dictate international interactions and trade.

The statement suggests deepening the Taiwan-Europe partnership in areas like artificial intelligence, drones, and semiconductors. It also reaffirms support for Taiwan's RISK initiative to safeguard undersea cables, aiming to boost security and prosperity for both regions.

President Lai expressed appreciation for the Formosa Club's support and the European lawmakers' vigilance regarding China's expansionism. He underscored the interconnected security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific, advocating for increased defense spending and cooperation in technological supply chains to strengthen Taiwan's self-defense capabilities.