Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Friday expressed its appreciation to the U.K. House of Commons for calling on its government to support Taiwan’s access to the international community.
The House of Commons on Thursday adopted a motion that “calls on the Government to support Taiwan’s recognition in the international community” following a nearly three-hour debate on the U.K.’s relationship with and policy toward Taiwan.
The motion also “notes the importance of the U.K.’s relationship with Taiwan” while urging the government to “continue to work towards the strengthening of the U.K.-Taiwan trade relationship and deepening of security cooperation.”
In a press statement issued Friday, MOFA thanked members of the parliament (MPs) for their support and friendship with Taiwan.
“The government will continue to strengthen bilateral cooperation with the U.K. based on existing dialogue and channels,” MOFA said.
The ministry noted that areas for cooperation include the development of semiconductors and global supply chains as well as the promotion of democratic values.
According to MOFA, Thursday’s debate illustrated MPs’ support of Taiwan following a previous debate on “U.K. Relations with Taiwan” in 2017.
Alicia Kearns, who proposed the debate on Thursday, said the U.K. ought to support Taiwan’s participation in the United Nations agencies, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and World Health Organization.
She also urged the government to negotiate a bilateral trade agreement with Taiwan and send ministerial officials to visit Taiwan.
In response, Amanda Milling, minister of state for Asia under the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, said the U.K. would continue to “advocate for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations for which statehood is not a prerequisite.”
The U.K. has a clear interest in ensuring peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, she said, adding that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s recent military sorties near Taiwan “are not conducive to regional peace.”
Source: Focus Taiwan News Channel