TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) urged support for Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership during talks with former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Monday.

Chiang hoped that Turnbull could use his influence to support Taiwan’s bid to join the CPTPP, according to the Legislative Yuan. The deputy speaker stressed that Taiwan and Australia’s industries are complementary, and that Taiwan’s accession would bring significant positive effects to the CPTPP and the global trade network. 

Chiang said Australia has abundant critical minerals and agricultural resources, which are complementary to Taiwan’s leading role in the global semiconductor manufacturing supply chain. He said he hoped Taiwan and Australia could develop more comprehensive cooperation.

Turnbull said that Australia has consistently worked with its allies to maintain regional peace and stability, and agreed with Chiang’s proposed “three Ds principle” to engage with China. This prioritizes: deterrence, dialogue, and democracy. 

The former prime minister emphasized that maintaining dialogue can help reduce misunderstandings and create opportunities for progress. The two also exchanged views on Australia–China relations, economic security, and defense budgets.