TAIPEI, (Taiwan Today) – President Tsai said April 12 that Taiwan is committed to safeguarding the values of freedom and democracy alongside like-minded partners while calling on Canada to support the country’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Tsai made the remarks while receiving a delegation from the country’s House of Commons at the Presidential Office in Taipei City. Led by John McKay, chair of the Standing Committee on National Defense, the group includes MPs Stephane Bergeron, James Bezan, Michael Chong, Ken Hardie and Heather McPherson.
Canada is a crucial partner to Taiwan, and it is essential that democracies stand united in the face of authoritarian expansionism, Tsai said, adding that the North American country has already demonstrated its concern over cross-strait peace and stability through its new Indo-Pacific Strategy.
The president took the opportunity to thank the Canadian government for supporting Taiwan’s international participation at gatherings such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and World Health Assembly.
Tsai said she hopes that the negotiations launched earlier this year on the signing of a foreign investment promotion and protection agreement will help deepen the two sides’ partnership and spur more economic and trade cooperation. Taiwan meets high-standard international trade rules and is prepared to join the CPTPP, she said, adding that the country will strive to create greater growth and prosperity together with partners.
In response, McKay stressed that Taiwan’s issues are Canada’s issues. The visit will help delegation members learn how the country has maintained and strengthened its democracy and prosperity despite the PRC’s considerable efforts to the contrary, he added.
Following his remarks, Hardie, who serves as chair of the Special Committee on the Canada-People’s Republic of China Relationship, said Taiwan and Canada both attach great importance to freedom of speech. He then presented Tsai with a copy of the “Canada and Taiwan: A Strong Relationship in Turbulent Times” report passed unanimously by the House of Commons.
