TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) highlighted Taiwan-French relations during a meeting with French lawmakers on Wednesday (Sept. 18). 

Han received a French senate delegation led by Senator Christophe-Andre Frassa. The legislative speaker emphasized the importance of the visit to Taiwan, saying this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the French Senate’s Taiwan Friendship Group, CNA reported. 

He pointed out that one-third of all Taiwanese legislators are members of the Taiwan-France Inter-Parliamentary Amity Association and hoped for further bilateral exchanges.

The legislative speaker thanked the French Parliament for supporting Taiwan and helping it continue on a path to progress.

Han also commended France for successfully hosting the Paris Olympics and congratulated the country on its outstanding achievements. 

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Frassa pointed out that the number of members in the Taiwan Friendship Group now surpasses that of the China Friendship Group. He acknowledged Taiwan's technological contributions to modern life and expressed the willingness of French businesses to collaborate with Taiwan.

Frassa’s visit is the senate’s first in more than a year. The previous senate delegation came to Taiwan in July 2023 for talks on regional geopolitical developments, human rights issues, and bilateral trade. Taiwan’s foreign ministry described the visit as a sign that the French Senate stands with Taiwan in defending shared values.

Taiwan established the Taiwan-France Inter-Parliamentary Amity Association in February 2024.