Taiwan and the Philippines share concerns over maritime security, particularly in response to China’s growing aggression in the region, Taiwan Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow said, emphasizing the need for cooperation among like-minded nations to address tensions in the South China Sea and ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
In his remarks during Taiwan’s 113th National Day reception on Tuesday (October 8), Chow highlighted the security challenges Taiwan faces from its powerful neighbor, including military intimidation, economic coercion, and diplomatic suppression.
“Taiwan will neither yield nor provoke. It will staunchly uphold its free and democratic constitutional system…and remain committed to ensuring regional peace and stability,” he said, as he outlined Taiwan’s “Four Pillars of Peace” action plan, which focuses on strengthening national defense, enhancing economic security, deepening partnerships with democratic nations, and maintaining stable cross-strait relations.
Chow drew parallels between Taiwan’s situation and the Philippines’ own challenges in the West Philippine Sea, where both countries face persistent illegal and aggressive operations from China.
He praised the Philippine government’s stance on the issue, referencing the joint statement from the April Philippines-US-Japan Trilateral Leaders’ Summit and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore emphasizing the importance of regional peace and stability.
Despite these security threats, Chow said Taiwan remains resilient and continues to achieve global recognition in various fields. He listed Taiwan’s significant accomplishments over the past year, showcasing its strong political, economic, and social standing:
- Democracy: In January 2024, Taiwan successfully held its eighth direct presidential and vice-presidential election, further strengthening its democratic governance. This milestone garnered international acclaim, including a congratulatory message from President Marcos Jr., who expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te.
- Economic Strength: Taiwan was recorded as the 22nd largest economy out of 191 nations in 2023 by the International Monetary Fund. Additionally, Taiwan holds the 5th largest foreign exchange reserves globally, totaling $579 billion as of August 2024.
- Competitiveness: Taiwan ranked 8th globally in the 2024 World Competitiveness Yearbook released by the Institute for Management Development, and 4th in the world in the 2024 Index of Economic Freedom by the Heritage Foundation. It also ranked 31st in the World Happiness Report and 2nd in Asia for happiness.
- Freedom: Taiwan ranks 22nd globally in the Freedom in the World report and 14th in the Asia Power Index published by the Lowy Institute, underscoring its growing influence and leadership in the region.
Chow also acknowledged the vital contribution of over 155,000 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Taiwan, particularly in the high-tech sector, commending their skills and dedication. He reassured that the Taiwan government would continue to safeguard their rights and promote better working conditions.
Reflecting on the long-standing partnership between Taiwan and the Philippines, Chow stressed the importance of continued collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, agriculture, medicine, public health, and disaster response. Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, now in its ninth year, has significantly enhanced bilateral cooperation in these sectors.
“Taiwan’s security is closely related to and mutually dependent on global stability and prosperity. Anything that happens to Taiwan could send ripples through the entire globe,” Chow said, reiterating that Taiwan’s challenges are also international concerns.
He expressed gratitude for the support Taiwan has received from the international democratic community, including the Philippines, in countering China’s expansion and aggression.
Ambassador Chow reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to building a stronger partnership with the Philippines, grounded in shared values of democracy and the rule of law. “Let’s work closely together to make our two countries better places to live and our region a safer and more prosperous land,” he said, expressing optimism for the future of Taiwan-Philippines relations.
Similar to other countries, the Philippines maintains a One China Policy. However, despite officially recognizing the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China since 1975, it also maintains economic and cultural relations with Taiwan.