TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) welcomed a cross-party delegation from Italy on Friday, praising their backing of Taiwan’s international participation.

Hsiao received the group led by Adriano Paroli, co-chair of the Italy-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group, at the Presidential Office, per CNA. She praised lawmakers for supporting Taiwan in the Italian parliament, noting they had passed resolutions showing their concern for stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Hsiao highlighted the close trade links between Taiwan and Italy, saying Taiwanese admire Italian industrial design, while both societies share warm hospitality and a love of food culture.

She said she hopes the visit will allow the delegation to deepen its understanding of Taiwan and provide new opportunities for trade and culture.

The delegation, which is scheduled to tour Taiwan’s technology sector, included senators Gianpietro Maffoni, Cinzia Pellegrino, and Alberto Losacco, as well as representatives Andrea Orsini, Luca Squeri, Raffaele Nevi, and Dario Damiani.