TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) celebrated the growing cooperation between Taiwan and the Czech Republic on Tuesday (Nov. 12).

Collaboration in semiconductors, cybersecurity, and cultural exchanges has been expanding, Lai said in a meeting with the visiting Czech parliament delegation, led by Marek Benda, per the Presidential Office. He pointed to the recent establishment of the Czech Center in Taipei, friendly baseball matches, and the launch of direct flights between Taipei and Prague as examples of the close cooperation.

Lai highlighted the shared values of democracy and freedom between Taiwan and the Czech Republic and the challenges of countering authoritarianism. 

Benda, chair of the Czech House of Representatives Taiwan Friendship Group, lauded the upcoming large-scale exhibition jointly organized by the National Palace Museum in Taipei and the National Museum in Prague, which is set to open next year. He emphasized the potential for enhanced Taiwan-Czech cooperation in the semiconductor industry, as Czech businesses' involvement in the semiconductor supply chain could bring about mutual economic benefits.

Benda also underscored the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and said it affects Southeast Asian maritime security. He rejected China’s military intimidation in the region and its misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758.

The delegation arrived in Taiwan on Monday to discuss Taiwan-Czech relations and bilateral cooperation with high-ranking officials, including President Lai Ching-te (賴清德). The lawmakers will also engage with think tanks to exchange views on cybersecurity, combating disinformation, and countering foreign interference alongside local experts and scholars.