On the morning of May 10, the cross-party delegation led by Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜) arrived in France to begin its congressional diplomacy visit.
Upon arriving in Paris, the delegation was received at the airport by Representative Hao Pei-Chih of the Taipei Representative Office in France, who hosted a luncheon briefing to outline the overall itinerary and key work arrangements for the trip. After the luncheon, through the thoughtful arrangements of the French Senate’s Taiwan Friendship Group, the host organization for this visit, the delegation visited the Palace of Versailles, a site steeped in France’s rich cultural and historical heritage that also serves as the venue for joint sessions of the French Parliament. With explanations provided by guides, the delegation gained a deeper understanding of this precious French cultural heritage.
In the evening, the Legislative Yuan hosted a banquet for Taiwanese businesspeople in France and representatives of the overseas Taiwanese community to express its sincere gratitude to overseas compatriots who have long been active in local communities and supported Taiwan’s diplomacy and international engagement, while acknowledging their important role in promoting people-to-people exchanges and economic and trade cooperation between Taiwan and France.
In his remarks, President Han especially thanked Honorary President Tsai Kuo-Tai of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, National Policy Advisor Huang Hsing-Te, President Chiang Chi-Min of the Indochinese Association in France, and members of the overseas compatriot community for taking time during the weekend to attend the evening gathering. He also introduced the legislators in attendance from the three political parties and emphasized that this was his first visit to Europe as President of the Legislative Yuan. By choosing Paris as his first stop, he brought greetings and support from home to overseas compatriots who have worked hard abroad.
President Han pointed out that although Taiwan accounts for only 0.03% of the world’s land area and 0.3% of its population, it represents 3% of global industrial production capacity. Taiwan’s outstanding performance on the international stage, he said, is the result of the joint efforts of all Taiwanese people at home and compatriots abroad. President Han then highlighted Taiwan’s five major advantages: cutting-edge high-tech semiconductor and wafer foundry industries; high-quality medical technology and the universal health insurance system; small and medium-sized enterprises that are hidden champions across various sectors; a comfortable living environment and excellent public safety; and a civil society that enjoys full freedom and democracy.
In closing, President Han encouraged everyone present to be proud of being Taiwanese, to unite and work hard for Taiwan, and to put aside partisan differences, keeping only Taiwan in their hearts. His heartfelt remarks received an enthusiastic response from the more than 60 guests in attendance. The dinner lasted approximately two hours and concluded successfully amid lively exchanges and a warm atmosphere, bringing the first day of the visit to a close. (20260510)
