TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Legislative Yuan Deputy Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) welcomed an eight-member delegation of parliamentarians from seven northern and central European countries on Tuesday.

He said the delegation members are steadfast supporters of Taiwan who have repeatedly spoken up for the country on the international stage, CNA reported. Several of them have visited Taiwan multiple times, Chiang said, which he said demonstrates the deep democratic partnership between Taiwan and Europe and the enduring friendship between the parliaments.

Chiang said that although Taiwan and Europe are geographically far apart, they share core values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. Taiwan closely follows political and economic developments in Europe and is concerned about the Russia–Ukraine war, he said.

The deputy speaker said he hopes Taiwan and Europe will expand cooperation in AI, renewable energy, and hydrogen energy development. He reiterated the goal of jointly building a democratic technology supply chain and establishing a stable, long-term cooperation platform.

Zygimantas Pavilionis, the leader of the delegation, said many in the group serve on their national parliaments’ foreign affairs and defense committees and have a deep understanding of the security threats posed by geopolitical challenges. He said war is not a distant issue for Europe and that countries must strengthen their ability to respond early on both security and economic fronts.

He said he hopes the visit will provide a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s experience in national security, economic and trade development, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The delegation will exchange views on international cooperation initiatives such as risk management for undersea cables, he added.