TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The UK representative in Taiwan, John Dennis, will leave his post at the British Office in Taipei on Saturday after serving four years. 

In an interview with Nikkei Asia published on Friday, Dennis said the UK views Taiwan as a critical partner and makes “constant efforts” to strengthen ties and promote Taiwan’s international participation. After Dennis leaves Taiwan, he will be replaced by Ruth Bradley-Jones, a former UK envoy in Myanmar.  

Dennis told Nikkei Asia the UK has plans to sign new agreements with Taiwan on digital trade, investment, and green energy, with negotiations planned for the first half of this year. He cited Taiwan’s strength in the fields of science and technology and the country’s strategic importance for global supply chains as reasons to continue strengthening bilateral ties. 

The diplomat added that energy policy is an area that is ripe for collaboration between the two countries, with an emphasis on next-generation offshore wind projects, per Nikkei.

Beyond business ties, Dennis affirmed that the UK-Taiwan relationship is built on a firm foundation of shared values. As evidence of this, Dennis pointed to a resolution passed by the House of Commons last year.

The resolution fundamentally rejected China’s claims of sovereignty over Taiwan and recognized that China has consistently misinterpreted UN General Resolution 2758 with regard to Taiwan. UK lawmakers determined that the resolution does not exclude Taiwan’s right to join international forums and called on increased international involvement for Taiwan.

Dennis said the resolution was a symbolic push for the UK to pursue strengthened ties with Taipei. He expressed confidence that London will continue its “constant efforts” to strengthen bilateral relations and advocate for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations.