TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) urged the UK to support Taiwan’s bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) during talks with British lawmakers on Monday.

Meeting with a visiting UK parliamentary delegation, Chiang congratulated the UK on its official CPTPP membership in December and called for its backing in Taiwan’s application, according to the Legislative Yuan. He also emphasized the need for deeper Taiwan-UK cooperation in trade, education, technology, and security to strengthen bilateral ties and uphold global democratic values.

Chiang said parliamentary exchanges have significantly enhanced Taiwan-UK relations, noting that as a democracy facing diplomatic challenges, Taiwan relies on parliamentary diplomacy as a vital channel for international engagement.

Sarah Chapman, chair of the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group, said her longstanding support for Taiwan stems from shared democratic values. Having visited Taiwan five times, she affirmed the UK Parliament’s broad backing for Taiwan and highlighted the bipartisan nature of the visiting delegation.

Chapman said the group’s visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties, boost trade, and strengthen strategic security cooperation.