Berlin:Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister François Wu has called for Europe to enhance industrial cooperation through a "Made with Taiwan" approach. He emphasized that Taiwan's expertise in semiconductors and manufacturing could bolster European competitiveness and benefit the economic and security interests of both regions.
According to Focus Taiwan, Wu presented this proposal at the 25th Berlin Security Conference, held on November 3-4. The conference primarily addressed Europe's defense capabilities, security threats from Russia, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
During a side event led by retired German Major General Reinhard Wolski, Wu, along with other senior officials, discussed the security threat posed by China to Taiwan, the island's defense resilience, and potential Taiwan-Europe cooperation. Wu highlighted the shared democratic values and economic development between Taiwan and Europe, urging Europe to consider Taiwan as a significant democratic partner in Asia.
Wu proposed that Europe move from a "Made in Taiwan" model to a "Made with Taiwan" model, leveraging Europe's strengths in research and design alongside Taiwan's manufacturing prowess. He noted that Europe's renewed focus on manufacturing and economic security presents new opportunities for collaboration with Taiwan.
Wu, who has participated in the Berlin Security Conference for 11 years, stated that the partnership holds long-term potential. He assured that Taiwan, unlike China, does not have geopolitical ambitions and would not use economic ties as a means of exerting pressure. He concluded that closer cooperation with Taiwan would reinforce Europe's industrial competitiveness and security while supporting a democratic ally.
