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Swedish lawmakers say Taiwan trip sends 'strong message' to China

ROC Central News Agency

04/13/2022 08:16 PM

Taipei, April 13 (CNA) A Swedish parliamentary delegation said Wednesday that their current visit to Taipei sends a strong message to China that Europe will support Taiwan's efforts to defend its freedom and democracy.

"We are here to deliver a message and to make it clear that the international community cares about Taiwan," said the delegation's leader Boriana Åberg, during a meeting with Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌).

"China constantly threatens Taiwan" with reunification, by force if necessary, said Åberg, who is also chief of the Swedish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Association.

She said the Russian aggression against Ukraine served as "a frightening example" that a dictator's ambition for reunification could lead to the destruction of a country and the death of many innocent people.

It is imperative, therefore, that democratic powers unite in their support of Taiwan, Åberg said.

"Nobody can force Taiwan to take another path than the path chosen by the people of Taiwan -- the path of democracy, human rights and the rule of law," she said.

Charlie Weimers, co-leader of the delegation, echoed Åberg's views, saying that the delegation's visit was aimed at showing support for Taiwan.

"Deterrence has been a major part of our conversations during this trip, and a crucial part of deterrence is to make Beijing aware that the Europeans know Taiwan, and they care for Taiwan," said Weimers, who is a member of the EU parliament. "That is why this trip is so important. It sends a strong message, a message that can be heard all over the Taiwan Strait."

Weimers also said he was looking forward to seeing further links between the EU and Taiwan in trade and other areas, including combating disinformation and promoting Chinese language learning.

Meanwhile, Premier Su said Taiwan and Sweden should negotiate an air services agreement to allow for direct flights between the two countries, as this would facilitate greater bilateral trade and promote tourism on both sides.

In response, Åberg said, "Next time I hope we will arrive on a direct flight from Stockholm to Taipei."

She said the delegation looked forward to deepening bilateral contacts and relations and would continue to support Taiwan's participation in United Nations' agencies.

Åberg and her delegation will conclude their five-day visit to Taiwan on Thursday.

(By Teng Pei-ju)

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