TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) thanked the French Senate’s support for Taiwan on Thursday (Nov. 14).

Upon arriving in Paris on Thursday, Chiang met with Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, chair of the Senate Taiwan Friendship Group, to discuss Taiwan-France relations. Chiang thanked Lemoyne for fostering regular parliamentary exchange between the two countries. He believed face-to-face communication and exchanges were the best ways to deepen the bilateral friendship.

Chiang and Lemoyne predicted that the international landscape would shift following the US election and agreed it is essential to explore new avenues of cooperation between Taiwan and France. The deputy speaker expressed gratitude for Lemoyne’s longstanding support for Taiwan’s international participation and looked forward to seeing more democratic allies advocate for Taiwan on the global stage.

Chiang and his delegation later met with leaders in the overseas Taiwanese community to understand local developments, per CNA.

The delegation is scheduled for more talks with French lawmakers, including the senate vice president. The group will also meet with committee members focused on digital innovation and gender equality. 

Chiang said that through parliamentary diplomacy, the Legislative Yuan can build more international friendships, showcase the warmth and sincerity of the Taiwanese, and continue to advocate for Taiwan on the global stage.