On the evening of April 28, Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜) hosted a banquet for a seven-member delegation of cross-party Australian parliamentarians, accompanied by Chair of the Taiwan-Australia and New Zealand Inter-Parliamentary Amity Association and DPP Legislator Chiu Yi-Ying, KMT Legislator Adm. Chen Yeong-Kang, and TPP Legislator Hsu Chung-Hsin. Secretary-General Daniel Kuo-Ching Chen of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Representative Robert Fergusson of the Australian Office were also in attendance.
In his opening remarks, President Han warmly welcomed the delegation. He noted that communication between lawmakers and their foreign counterparts fosters a deeper mutual understanding of their respective duties, as well as their unique challenges, pressures, and responsibilities. He added that such common ground makes today's gathering all the more precious and that stronger connections rooted in mutual understanding can be built through face-to-face exchanges of experience and perspectives.
He went on to stress that with various challenges arising in today’s fast-changing global landscape, tailored measures must be taken to address various scenarios. He stated that Australia and Taiwan are democratic partners, and that parliament-to-parliament interactions not only embody sincerity and mutual understanding, but also create more opportunities for cooperation, thereby further deepening the bilateral bond between Taiwan and Australia. In closing, President Han underlined the importance for the international community to understand and respect the three major aspirations of the people of Taiwan, namely, a democratic way of life, defensive security, and peace across the Taiwan Strait.
In her remarks, delegation leader Senator Carol Brown mentioned that while members of the delegation represent different political parties with diverse stances and perspectives, they share a strong consensus on key issues such as supporting Taiwan and strengthening Australia-Taiwan relations. She emphasized that the delegation deeply understands Taiwan’s pivotal role in the region and values the steadfast, long-term partnership between Taiwan and Australia.
Senator Brown proceeded to note that the productive and insightful meetings and exchanges during this visit have provided the delegation with a better understanding of various issues facing Taiwan. She expressed confidence that this experience will serve as an important foundation for enhancing future cooperation. She also expressed hope that the lawmakers at the banquet can continue to exchange views in this more relaxed setting, so as to explore opportunities for future cooperation and development and inject positive momentum into the bilateral relationship.
Following Ms. Brown’s remarks, President Han invited Legislator Chiu to also say a few words. Legislator Chiu shared her experience of studying in Brisbane, a memory she still holds dear. She mentioned that the experience has taught her the value and significance of cross-cultural engagement. She reiterated that as Chair of the Taiwan-Australia and New Zealand Inter-Parliamentary Amity Association, she will continue to promote parliamentary exchanges between Taiwan and Australia and strengthen bilateral ties.
The two sides subsequently discussed wide-ranging issues such as regional affairs and the situation in the Taiwan Strait, future areas of cooperation between Taiwan and Australia, the operations of the Legislative Yuan, and the review process of the special act for defense procurement. The dinner lasted approximately two hours in a warm and friendly atmosphere and concluded successfully with an exchange of gifts and a group photo. (2026/04/28)
