TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) welcomed the largest bipartisan Italian parliamentary delegation to visit in recent years Thursday (Sept. 4), led by Adriano Paroli, co-chair of the Italy-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group. Lin expressed deep appreciation for Italy's consistent support of Taiwan's international participation and diplomatic efforts. The high-level visit underscores strengthening parliamentary ties between the democratic nations amid regional tensions.
The distinguished delegation includes Senators Gianpietro Maffoni, Cinzia Pellegrino, Alberto Losacco, and Representatives Andrea Orsini, Luca Squeri, Raffaele Nevi, and Dario Damian. Lin praised Italy for championing Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly, the World Health Organization's decision-making body, and for countering China's misinterpretation of U.N. Resolution 2758. The minister emphasized Italy's crucial role in supporting Taiwan's global health engagement efforts.
Lin highlighted Italy's commitment to Taiwan Strait peace and stability during its G-7 presidency and its strategic naval presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Deputy Foreign Minister Wu Chih-chung (吳志中) hosted a formal luncheon for the visiting parliamentarians, describing Italy as a vital democratic partner sharing Taiwan's core values. Wu expressed hopes that the visit would enhance Italian lawmakers' understanding of Taiwan and further strengthen bilateral diplomatic relations.
Wu emphasized Taiwan's indispensable position in the global semiconductor supply chain and the strategic importance of collaboration with European industries. Paroli praised Taiwan as a pivotal democratic force in the Indo-Pacific region while expressing admiration for the island's remarkable scientific and economic achievements. The Italian parliamentary leader pledged unwavering support for pro-Taiwan legislation and enhanced international cooperation to strengthen Italy-Taiwan relations.
