Former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) is set to visit Europe, marking her first international trip since leaving office, according to multiple news reports. The visit will include stops in the Czech Republic, France, and Belgium, where she is expected to engage with both local and European Union (EU) politicians.
In an interview with Rti, European Values Centre for Security Policy Taiwan office head Marcin Mateusz Jerzewski said that Tsai’s choice of Europe as her first overseas trip destination post-presidency is symbolic and aligns with her longstanding foreign policy strategy of diversifying Taiwan's international relations.
When discussing the growing ties between the Czech Republic and Taiwan, Jerzewski highlighted both the normative and pragmatic aspects of their relationship. He pointed to the Czech Republic's liberal coalition government, inspired by the democratic legacy of former President Václav Havel, who was a strong advocate for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations like the United Nations. On the economic front, Jerzewski noted the significance of Taiwanese investments in the Czech Republic, particularly by companies like Foxconn, which is seen as a major employer in the country.
Jerzewski stressed that the choice of destinations for Tsai’s visit appears to be strategically planned. He says the public may need to manage their expectations regarding the outcome of the trip given that Tsai has left the office, but her tour does signal Taiwan’s intent to be a key partner to Europe.
