Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu is leading a cross-party delegation of Taiwanese lawmakers on a parliamentary diplomacy visit to France and the United Kingdom.
This mission represents a strategic effort to broaden Taiwan's international presence through legislative channels. By engaging with European parliaments, Taiwan seeks to strengthen political bonds and secure support for its democratic governance outside of formal diplomatic treaties.
The delegation is scheduled to travel from May 9 to May 17, 2026 [1]. The trip, which began this Saturday, includes a series of meetings designed to promote parliamentary diplomacy and foster cooperation between the legislative bodies of the three nations [1].
Beyond official government meetings, the itinerary includes visits to overseas compatriots living in France and the UK [1]. These engagements are intended to maintain connections with the Taiwanese diaspora and highlight the global reach of the island's citizens.
The cross-party nature of the delegation underscores a unified legislative front. By including lawmakers from different political backgrounds, the mission signals to international partners that Taiwan's commitment to parliamentary diplomacy transcends domestic party lines.
Officials said the visit aims to enhance mutual understanding and create new avenues for bilateral cooperation in the European region [1]. The trip comes as Taiwan continues to navigate complex geopolitical tensions and seeks to diversify its international partnerships through non-traditional diplomatic routes.
“Taiwan seeks to strengthen political bonds and secure support for its democratic governance.”
This diplomatic push reflects Taiwan's 'parliamentary diplomacy' strategy, which uses legislative exchanges to maintain visibility and influence when formal state-to-state relations are limited. By targeting France and the UK, Taiwan is attempting to deepen ties with key G7 nations to ensure its security and economic interests are recognized within the European political sphere.
