Taiwan approaches the end of a transformative year marked by critical geopolitical shifts and new opportunities.
With the US elections behind it, Taipei now focuses on solidifying its position in the global landscape. Central to this strategy is its growing relationship with Europe, a continent that despite its diverse internal politics has shown increasing interest in Taiwan as a technological and democratic partner.
Eastern Europe — led by Lithuania, Poland, Latvia and Estonia — has emerged as a particularly promising ally, reflecting a shared commitment to resilience against authoritarian pressures.
At the heart of this developing partnership is innovation. Taiwan’s advanced semiconductor technology and expertise in drone systems align perfectly with the growing technological ambitions of Eastern Europe.
Lithuania, for instance, has become a pivotal player in unmanned aerial vehicle technology, providing drones to Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Taiwan, undeterred by China’s persistent diplomatic pressure, has engaged with Lithuania to explore collaborative opportunities in drone development. This burgeoning cooperation signifies not only a technological alliance but also a strategic one, as both nations face challenges from larger, aggressive neighbors.
Poland, with its historical emphasis on resilience and its current focus on AI and semiconductors, has positioned itself as a key partner for Taiwan. Recent discussions between Taiwanese officials and Polish trade representatives highlight shared ambitions.
Improved engagement
Direct flights being negotiated between Taipei and Warsaw would deepen economic and cultural exchanges. Taiwan’s reputation as a steadfast democratic partner has resonated deeply in Poland, a nation that values sovereignty and solidarity in the face of external pressures.
Estonia and Latvia, while smaller in scale, have not lagged in their engagement with Taiwan. Both countries, through parliamentary support groups and industrial partnerships, have embraced Taiwan as a technological and democratic ally.
A recently signed memorandum of understanding between Taiwan and Latvia in the drone industry underscores a shared vision for resilient supply chains and reduced dependency on authoritarian regimes. Estonia’s vocal support for Taiwan in parliamentary forums further cements this growing alliance.
The appeal of Taiwan to Eastern Europe is multifaceted. Its advanced industries offer a counterbalance to China’s dominance in global supply chains, while its strong democracy serves as an inspiration for nations that have historically resisted authoritarianism.
Taiwan’s swift humanitarian aid to Ukraine and its solidarity with nations impacted by Russian aggression have only strengthened its moral standing in the region.
For Taiwan, these partnerships are more than strategic — they are symbolic. They represent a rejection of isolation and an embrace of global interdependence.
By aligning with countries that understand the value of sovereignty and resilience, Taiwan sends a clear message to the world: it is a willing and capable partner in the fight for democratic stability.
In the fight for good
This quiet but determined courtship between Taiwan and Eastern Europe exemplifies how nations, despite geographical and cultural distances, can find common ground in shared values and mutual interests.
As Taipei navigates an increasingly complex international arena, its growing relationship with Europe is anchored by Lithuania, Poland, Latvia and Estonia. This relationship offers a beacon of hope for a future built on cooperation and shared ideals.
Adding to this momentum, the recent visit by Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) to Belgium and Lithuania underscores the strategic importance of these ties.
While the announcement by Teltonika to suspend its planned Taiwanese semiconductor factory in Vilnius due to energy supply issues and land repurposing raised concerns, Taiwan’s foreign ministry has reiterated that the collaboration with Lithuania remains steadfast. Efforts are being made to address the challenges, with promises of robust support to ensure the project’s fruition and eventual success.
Lin’s diplomatic engagements in Brussels and President Lai Ching-te’s (賴清德) upcoming trips to Guam and Palau mark critical milestones for Taiwan’s international diplomacy as the year comes to a close. Key topics on the agenda include free-market cooperation, defense and drone technology, and the broader lessons learned from Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion.
These measures highlight Taiwan’s strategic preparation for 2025, a year that may also see the return of President Donald Trump, further shaping the global political landscape.
In this ever-shifting geopolitical scenario, Taiwan’s proactive diplomacy and its partnerships with like-minded nations provide a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to democratic values.
