Taiwan is actively pursuing deeper diplomatic relations with Israel, despite facing criticism over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung emphasized that Israel’s unwavering support for Taiwan sets it apart from other Middle Eastern nations. Speaking at a meeting organized by the Taiwan Foreign Correspondents’ Club, Lin stated that Taiwan remains committed to fostering friendships with countries that reciprocate its goodwill. He highlighted a declaration signed earlier this year by 72 members of the Israeli parliament, endorsing Taiwan’s participation in key international organizations, as a testament to Israel’s backing. Lin also criticized Palestine for aligning with Beijing’s “One-China” principle, which asserts Taiwan as an inseparable part of China. He stressed the importance of aligning human rights with national interests. Earlier this year, Taiwan faced backlash for planning a donation to a medical center in an Israeli settlement in the West Bank, a region deemed illegally occupied by the International Court of Justice. When questioned about the status of the donation, Lin avoided a direct response, instead emphasizing Taiwan’s focus on providing humanitarian aid to both sides of the Israel-Hamas conflict. He revealed that Taiwanese diplomats are instructed to remain neutral in the conflict. Lin also suggested that other nations could learn from Taiwan’s strategies in dealing with China, particularly in areas like gray-zone tactics, telecommunications, and data transfers. Last week, Lin accompanied Vice President Bi-Khim Hsiao on a rare visit to Brussels, where Hsiao urged the European Union to strengthen security and trade ties with Taiwan.
Taiwan’s foreign minister says closer ties with Israel align with the island’s interests
