TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged Europe to forge closer relations with Taiwan as the US vacates the world stage. 

Speaking in Taipei on Monday, Rasmussen pointed out that under President Donald Trump, the US is exiting its position as a leader of freedom and democracy, per CNA. Rasmussen, who also served as NATO secretary general from 2009-2014, said Europe must adopt a changed mindset.

According to Rasmussen, Europe must increase its defense spending, critical infrastructure, and societal resilience. He said, "For far too long, Europe thrived on cheap Russian energy, cheap Chinese goods, and cheap American security.” 

In addition, Rasmussen said Europe must stand with Taiwan not only economically and politically but “even militarily.” He said that democracies must stand together in an increasingly dangerous world. 

Rasmussen said we must not signal collective weakness to dictators, who are watching what will happen in Ukraine. He added that we must re-examine the US' significance to places such as Taiwan and Ukraine. 

Rasmussen spoke of Europe-Taiwan ties entering an enhanced era. He said Europe must build on the European Union's Chips Act to expand trade and technology cooperation with Taiwan.