Italian Senate leader lauds Taiwan’s democracy during visit

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Gian Marco Centinaio, the first deputy president of the Italian Senate, on Tuesday (May21) praised Taiwan's democratic processes amid recent legislative conflicts.

Centinaio, a member of Italy's "La Lega" party, led a delegation to Taiwan to attend President Lai Ching-te's inauguration. The delegation's visit to the Legislative Yuan was slightly delayed due to traffic and public gatherings.

Centinaio's delegation, which included Licia Ronzulli, vice president of the Senate from the "Forza Italia" party, and Senator Daniela Ternullo, met with Johnny Chiang, the Vice President of the Legislative Yuan.

Despite recent tensions in the legislature, Centinaio smiled in response to Chiang's remarks on the legislative skirmishes, stating, "This is a normal phenomenon in a democratic regime." He further commended Taiwan as a highly democratic country, underscoring the mutual respect and understanding between the two nations.

Chiang expressed gratitude for Italy's longstanding support, including advocacy for Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA). Centinaio emphasized his intention to urge Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to support Taiwan's involvement in the World Health Organization (WHO).

The delegation also advocated for deeper parliamentary exchanges between Taiwan and Italy, with Centinaio expressing hope for future visits by Taiwanese legislative delegations to Italy. This visit strengthens bilateral relations and signals Italy's support for Taiwan's democratic values and international participation.