French National Assembly member Guillaume Kasbarian emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral ties between France and Taiwan, highlighting shared democratic values and growing economic potential, during a high-level meeting with Taiwan’s Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) in Taipei.
Kasbarian, currently serving his third term under French President Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party, is leading a four-member parliamentary delegation on a six-day diplomatic visit to Taiwan. His comments on Wednesday reflected a deepening sentiment among French lawmakers to bolster cooperation with Taiwan despite mounting geopolitical tensions with China.
✳️ Beyond Trade: A Strategic Partnership Built on Democratic Ideals
In remarks delivered at the Legislative Yuan, Kasbarian said, “We are here to reaffirm our hope and willingness to collaborate more in the future — particularly in trade and investment — but also to solidify a relationship based on shared principles: human rights, freedom, and democracy.”
While economic engagement featured prominently, the French MP also referenced broader strategic concerns. “Our two nations face complex challenges: enhancing cybersecurity, protecting sovereignty, and resisting authoritarian influence,” Kasbarian stated, making an indirect but clear reference to China’s rising global assertiveness and its pressure campaign on Taiwan.
This statement aligns with recent moves by French leadership, including President Macron’s calls for “European strategic autonomy” and balanced engagement with both the U.S. and China, signaling that France sees Taiwan as a democratic partner worth defending — at least diplomatically.
🧠 Analysis: Why This Visit Matters Now
Kasbarian’s visit comes on the heels of several global developments:
- European re-evaluation of China policy: France, along with Germany and other EU nations, has grown increasingly cautious of its dependency on China for critical infrastructure and supply chains.
- Taiwan’s political transition: With Lai Ching-te taking office as Taiwan’s new president, foreign visits like this serve to underscore international support during a delicate power transition in Taipei.
- EU-Taiwan digital cooperation: Taiwan and the EU recently initiated talks on enhancing digital and cybersecurity infrastructure — a theme Kasbarian also touched on.
By sending lawmakers to Taipei, France signals a subtle but significant shift toward engagement without formally recognizing Taiwan as a sovereign state — in line with the EU’s “One China” policy, but clearly resisting Chinese diplomatic bullying.
🤝 Meetings With Key Taiwanese Leaders
The French delegation includes MPs Estelle Youssouffa, Paul Midy, and Corentin Le Fur — all rising figures in French politics. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the group is scheduled to meet with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) and top-level ministers in economic affairs, digital development, and foreign relations.
Discussions are expected to focus on:
- Expansion of bilateral trade
- Cooperation in high-tech manufacturing and AI
- Cybersecurity resilience frameworks
- Strengthening educational and cultural exchanges
📌 Taiwan’s Diplomatic Strategy: Friends Without Formal Recognition
Taiwan currently maintains formal diplomatic ties with just 12 countries. However, unofficial partnerships with major Western democracies — especially in Europe — have grown in strategic value. France is part of a growing coalition within the EU that recognizes Taiwan’s importance in global semiconductor supply chains and democratic solidarity.
This visit by Kasbarian, while not officially state-level, marks a symbolic victory for Taiwan’s foreign policy strategy: engaging like-minded nations through “value diplomacy” in sectors such as democracy, tech, and trade.
❓FAQs
Who is Guillaume Kasbarian and why is he in Taiwan?
Guillaume Kasbarian is a French parliamentarian from President Macron’s Renaissance party. He is leading a delegation to Taiwan to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, cybersecurity, and democratic engagement.
What is the significance of this visit?
The visit underscores growing support for Taiwan among Western democracies. It also reflects France’s strategic interest in diversifying partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in light of China’s rising influence.
Did France change its official stance on Taiwan?
No. France continues to follow the “One China” policy. However, it increasingly engages Taiwan through unofficial but impactful channels such as parliamentary visits and economic partnerships.
What areas of cooperation are being explored?
Areas include trade, investment, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, education, and democratic governance.
How has China responded to these types of visits in the past?
China typically criticizes and condemns such visits, calling them interference in its internal affairs. It may issue diplomatic protests or apply pressure on French businesses operating in China.
