On the afternoon of September 24, Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜), accompanied by KMT Legislator Adm. Chen Yeong-Kang and DPP Legislator Ngalim Tiunn, received an Australian parliamentary delegation led by Senate Deputy President Slade Brockman. Also in attendance were Secretary General Daniel Kuo-Ching Chen of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Acting Representative Daniel Stuart of the Australian Office in Taipei.
President Han began by extending a warm welcome to Deputy President Brockman and his delegation, introducing the legislators from across party lines who were present at the meeting. He outlined the differences between the parliamentary systems of Taiwan and Australia and explained how the Legislative Yuan operates. He noted that the Legislative Yuan comprises 113 legislators and is entrusted with the important responsibilities of reviewing the national budget and enacting legislation.
President Han went on to express his gratitude to Australian parliamentarians for their steadfast support for Taiwan, particularly highlighting recent remarks by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese concerning Taiwan’s participation in the Pacific Islands Forum during its summit. President Han emphasized that, amid the challenges of the international environment, the warmth and friendship extended to Taiwan by countries around the world are especially meaningful.
President Han noted that although Taiwan is geographically small, its contributions to the world are immense, highlighting that Taiwan holds a leading position globally in semiconductor foundry services, the semiconductor industry, and artificial intelligence. He also remarked that Taiwan is home to numerous “hidden champions” that excel in industries ranging from textiles, medical products, and chemicals to kitchenware, bicycles, and everyday consumer goods, demonstrating the strength and competitiveness of Taiwan’s industrial sector. President Han stressed that Taiwan’s most valuable assets are its mature democracy and the warmth of its people. He expressed hope that the delegation would take full advantage of its visit to experience and gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan.
Deputy President Brockman thanked President Han for his warm hospitality, noting that this was his second visit to Taiwan and that returning felt like visiting old friends in a familiar place. He then introduced the members of his delegation, emphasizing that the group included senators and members of the House of Representatives from across party lines, reflecting the diverse voices of the Australian Parliament. He noted that Australia is the second most popular overseas study destination for Taiwanese students and that the economies of Taiwan and Australia are highly complementary. He expressed hope that the two sides would continue to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas including energy, high technology, food, and critical minerals.
During the exchange, Legislator Chen warmly welcomed the cross-party Australian parliamentary delegation and emphasized the potential for continued political and economic cooperation between Taiwan and Australia. He also noted that Australia is an important educational partner for Taiwan and expressed hope for closer academic and talent exchanges in the future.
Legislator Tiunn shared her experience visiting Australia earlier this year to study its policies restricting social media use by minors. She also expressed particular appreciation to Australian parliamentarians for repeatedly speaking up for Taiwan in international forums, helping to strengthen Taiwan’s international participation and visibility.
The two sides also exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including mining, agriculture, talent development, energy and tourism exchanges, the development of Taiwan’s digital resilience, freedom of expression, the expansion of direct flight connections between Taiwan and Australia, and the operation of the Legislative Yuan. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes and was conducted in a warm and friendly atmosphere. It concluded successfully with an exchange of commemorative gifts. (2026/09/24)
