Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen partnerships across Europe and Southeast Asia are showing tangible results ahead of Double Ten National Day, underscoring growing international support for the island’s democracy and economic resilience.
After Taiwan and the Philippines signed MOUs on supply chain connectivity last week at an industrial collaboration summit in Manila, this week the Philippine Chinese community held an early National Day gala. Taiwan’s representative to Manila, Wallace Chow (周民淦), highlighted milestones such as the Philippines’ visa-free entry for Taiwanese travelers and expanded trade and investment missions. He also announced a US$200,000 donation to support relief efforts following last week’s Cebu earthquake, reaffirming Taiwan’s solidarity with its regional partners.
In Bangkok, Taiwan’s representative office hosted a National Day reception attended by Thai government and business leaders. Representative Peter Lan (藍夏禮) described Taiwan as an emerging “AI island,” citing its robust GDP growth and role as Thailand’s fourth-largest foreign investor. The event featured the Thai-wan Chamber Orchestra and displays celebrating Taiwan’s semiconductor achievements, reflecting shared ambitions for innovation and resilience.
Meanwhile in Taipei, an 11-member Swedish parliamentary delegation—the largest in recent years—arrived for a weeklong visit led by lawmaker Alexandra Anstrell. The group is meeting senior officials, including Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴), and will attend Friday’s National Day celebrations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also voiced confidence in ties with the Czech Republic following recent elections, noting that cooperation in trade, education, and technology remains both solid and strategic.
As Taiwan marks its 114th National Day, the wave of new partnerships, goodwill visits, and global gestures of friendship signal continued growth of like-minded allies.
