Warm Welcome to the Seimas Speaker Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen for addressing at the Chamber of the Legislative Yuan.
YOU Si-kun: Lithuania’s staunch support to Taiwan, demonstrating the importance for democracies of mutual support.
Accompanied by Democratic Progressive Party Caucus Convener Ker Chien-ming, KMT Caucus Convener Tseng Ming-chung, Taiwan People’s Party Convener Chiu Chen-yuan, New Power Party Convener Chiu Hsien-chih, Taiwan-Baltic Countries Parliamentary Amity Association Chairman Chiu Chih-wei, Secretary General Lin Jih-jia, Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu, Director General Vincent Chin-Hsiang Yao of the Department of European Affairs, Ambassador Eric Huang of Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania, President You and Madame You welcome Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen and her delegation at the Legislative Yuan with red carpet at 9 a.m. on October 24. The delegation members included Head of the Secretariat of the Speaker of the Seimas Lukas Kornelijus Vaiciakas, Chief Foreign Policy Advisor to the Speaker of the Seimas Ambassador Rolandas Kačinskas, Ms. Snieguolė Žiūkaitė, Head of the International Relations Unit, Deputizing for the Head of Protocol Unit of the Seimas and staffers. Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen first of all signed on the Legislative Yuan VIP book. Accompanied by President You and Madame You, the delegation proceeded to the chamber and was warmly welcomed by the entire Legislative Yuan along the two sides of the chamber with warm rounds of applause. A huge crowd of media from home and abroad came to cover the story. The ceremony was simple, warm and solemn.
As Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen entered the chambers, she was welcomed by the standing ovation of the legislators of all party caucus. President You first stated that today marked a significant and unforgettable occasion because Seimas Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen of the Republic of Lithuania, one of Taiwan’s most important democratic allies, and her delegation visited the Legislative Yuan. He asked the legislators to welcome the delegation with a warm round of applause.
President You continued to state that Lithuania is a vibrant democracy with a thriving economy that has followed a similar path to development as Taiwan. Despite being ruled by foreign forces and repressed by an authoritarian regime, the people of Lithuania never gave up hope of becoming free and democratic. In 1989, they demonstrated their commitment to democracy by joining hands with the people of Estonia and Latvia to form the Baltic Way—a human chain 675.5 kilometers long. The peaceful mass demonstration showed the world their determination to attain freedom and democracy. The movement won widespread respect and became a model for democratic fighters in Taiwan and the rest of the world.
At the height of the pandemic in 2021, when vaccines were a valuable strategic supply, Lithuania was the first European country to donate vaccines to Taiwan and the third in the world after the United States and Japan. This humanitarian spirit and demonstration of friendship was highly appreciated by the entire population of Taiwan. Although Lithuania maintains diplomatic relations with China, it was the first European country to allow us to use the word Taiwanese in the title of our representative office, which is profoundly significant.
President You continue to state that based on the spirit of reciprocity and mutual interest, both sides have continued to deepen exchanges and cooperation in all domains over the past two years. I want to once again thank Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen for your staunch support of Taiwan. With your vision, our relationship will be further enhanced.
At the witness of legislators of party caucuses and all distinguished guests, on behalf of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan), President You conferred the First-Class Medal of Honor for Parliamentary Diplomacy of the Legislative Yuan to Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen in recognition of her tremendous contributions to supporting Taiwan. Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen is the first parliamentary speaker from the Baltic countries to receive such an award. The entire participating guests gave her a standing ovation. In return, the Honorable Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen gave a gift to President You.
President You then delivered her introduction to Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen before she delivered her remarks. He said that she was a charismatic, intelligent female political leader. Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen is a remarkable politician and chess player. She is a grandmaster and a European women’s champion. With exceptional leadership and charisma, she successfully guided the Liberals’ Movement Party as its chair to win 13 seats in the Seimas and form a ruling coalition. She then won cross-party support to be elected as speaker, making her the third woman speaker in the history of Lithuania. Since taking office, Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen has demonstrated flexibility and resilience and has proven to be someone who keeps her promises. She has devoted herself to promoting parliamentary transparency. I still recall vividly when the Legislative Yuan hosted the Open Parliament Forum in 2021, Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen shared how the Lithuanian Seimas had become one of the most open and transparent parliaments in the world.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen once said that the relations between Lithuania and Taiwan cannot be simply measured by economic interests. She strongly supports substantive ties between our countries. The international community usually prioritizes economic interests. But Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen is undaunted by the threat of big power, demonstrating a noble character. On behalf of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I want to express my utmost respect for Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen’s perseverance and integrity.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen is going to share her insights into democracy and freedom in her keynote speech entitled “Beyond Borders: Vitality of Democratic Cooperation.” She is the first Simas speaker to visit Taiwan and also the first speaker from the Baltic countries to address the Legislative Yuan chamber.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen stated that she had great honor and deep gratitude that she stood before all in the temple of democracy and representation of the people. The she started her remarks. First of all, she stated that her presence was a testament to the bonds that united us in the pursuit of shared democratic ideals and a reaffirmation of our strong commitment to the principles that guide our nations. At a guest in the Parliament of Taiwan, at this vibrant democracy, I recognize the profound role of this institution. It is here, among the echoes of vigorous debates and significant decisions, that the collective voice of the people of Taiwan is heard, determining the destiny of the nation. Apart from playing a pivotal role for Taiwan, this Parliament also stands as a beacon to all who cherish democratic governance.
She continued to state that at the time when the resilience and the very value of democratic institutions are put to the test, my presence here send a message reaffirming that a nation’s strength derives not only from its economic clout or geographical expanse, but also from its vibrant spirit. Both Taiwan and Lithuania are guided by the belief that people are the creators of their own destiny. We share a goal of preserving the principles of democracy entrusted to us, and through this quest we discover our common ground that transcends geographical distances. She stressed that The message sent by Lithuania derives from our painful and heroic past. Our country suffered oppression and occupations, but has resolutely regained its independence and freedom by restoring statehood each time. This historic path strengthens our unwavering commitment to freedom,
democracy and international law. Those three values are closely interconnected and are crucial in a world which, unfortunately, is increasingly defined by uncertainty. Against the backdrop of growing confusion, strong relations between the world’s democracies are more important than ever before. I truly believe that shared values can bridge the longest geographical distances and bring people together.
She continued to point out that the commitment to those values, has not only shaped our strategic choices, but also created an unbreakable bond with the European Union. Lithuania looks forward with anticipation and pride to next year, when Lithuania will celebrate the 20th anniversary of EU membership. Deprived of the right to participate in the early stages of the EU unification process by the post-World War II occupation, Lithuania has enthusiastically embraced it as soon as the country joined the EU. Through our policies and active contribution, we strive to ensure that the EU strongly supports its Member States in upholding the fundamental principles that are at the core of European Union, in particular, freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen was pleased to note that this attitude is becoming more and more pronounced in the European Union’s approach to relations with Taiwan as well. This is particularly true in respect to the European Parliament, which is consequent in calling on the Union and its Member States to play an increasingly active role in cooperation with like-minded partners. The resolutions of the European Parliament highlight that we consider Taiwan not only an important partner, but also a democratic ally of the European Union in the Indo-Pacific Region. Taiwan’s strong democracy and technologically advanced economy can actively contribute to the maintenance of a rule-based order in the face of growing pressure from
major powers. The resolutions of the European Parliament also highlight the importance of developing partnership and cooperation at all levels between the EU and Taiwan.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen stressed that Lithuania fully subscribes to this imperative not only by words, but also by taking concrete, tangible steps in that direction. The year 2021 marked a new stage in our bilateral relations with Taiwan. The establishment of the Taiwanese Representative Office in Vilnius and the setting up of the Lithuanian Trade Representation Office in Taipei are designed to invigorate our bilateral economic, scientific, cultural, political and people-to-people exchanges.
One could say that today cooperation between Taiwan and Lithuania is a litmus test to many countries worldwide in general and to the EU in particular. A number of other EU Member States are eager to see the specific economic and investment results achieved and it could determine further steps of other EU Member States accordingly. This is why the partnership between Lithuania and Taiwan must become a success story for many more to follow. Together, we must show that collaboration between democracies is both right and mutually beneficial.
She continued to state that Be it support with Covid-19 vaccines, new business relations, cultural exchanges, or cooperation in education, all of these endeavors must help democracies build bridges at a time of immense global challenges. With this in mind, fostering our economic ties is particularly important. It is therefore no coincidence that during my visit to Taiwan I am joined by a large Lithuanian business delegation looking for opportunities to cooperate in information technology and innovation.
The focus on technology and innovation is a proof of Lithuania’s aim to
position itself among the world’s high value-added economies. Already a
leader in lasers, Lithuania is also advancing in life sciences, cybersecurity,
financial technologies, renewable energy, engineering and the automotive
industry. Sustainable cooperation between business and government, focus on high technologies, well-developed infrastructure, membership in the EU Single Market and other characteristics make Lithuania an excellent partner standing ready to cooperate with Taiwan and other stakeholders in the Indo-Pacific region, that are interested in developing high-tech businesses in Europe and beyond. The relations between Lithuania and Taiwan are also important in the broader context. As seen from the Lithuanian perspective, our country’s focus on technology will help us implement the European Green Deal and follow through on our international commitments on sustainable development and green transformation.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen continued to point out that Focusing on global issues such as climate change and tackling global health crises is a fair approach to international cooperation. Only by working together can we hope to meet these global challenges effectively. Incidentally, these concerns seem to weigh most heavily on democracies. If we are to meet the many forthcoming challenges and build a better future for our people, we must ensure a world order based on international law, mutual respect and cooperation. When states uphold international law, they create a stable and predictable environment in which cooperation and concerted action can flourish. This is the only way to meet the forthcoming global challenges.
However, international law is under threat today. We see how the established standards and rules are being flouted, and efforts are made to normalize aggressive behavior and violations of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. This threatens the stability and security of the global system and undermines our ability to address the challenges we face. Cooperation and diplomacy, rather than the use of force and coercion, must
underpin international relations in the modern world at large, and in this
region in particular. The future of Ukraine will be a key indicator of the direction in which international relations will be headed. More specifically, the future will depend on the international community’s response to the unprovoked war launched by Russia against a sovereign state. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is not only about violation of territorial integrity or expansion of geopolitical interests. It is about challenging the fundamental values on which our societies are based. It is about the right of people to choose their own future and to live in a free and democratic society. It is about the rule of law, human rights and the dignity of every human being. Therefore, we must take action to support freedom in Ukraine and beyond. We must uphold the rule of law and human rights, and we must take responsibility for our actions and omissions.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen stated that let us come back to the role of the parliaments. The promotion and protection of democracy and international law is the primary responsibility of states and international institutions that prioritize these objectives. By default, democratic parliaments are equally not only in charge of safeguarding democracy and international law, but also bear the brunt of responsibility for meeting other challenges that arise in the process of promotion and protection of democracy and international law. As representatives of the people, parliaments can provide a forum for dialogue and debate on the major global challenges threatening our world today. In partnership with other public institutions, international organizations, civil society and the private sector, parliaments can help build consensus and develop policies to address these challenges in a
comprehensive and coordinated way. In other words, at a challenging time, neither parliaments as institutions, nor their individual members, let alone their leaders, can afford the luxury of standing aside from issues important for international coexistence. On the contrary, we, as parliamentarians must take an active role in the development of policies to meet the current and future challenges.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen underscored that she was encouraged by the knowledge that here, in the Parliament of Taiwan, one is surrounded by friends and like-minded people ready to act together. The support of the people of Taiwan to the people of Ukraine who are fighting for their freedom and their future is paramount. I therefore commend the cooperation between Taiwan and Lithuania in the reconstruction effort in Ukraine. The first project has already been implemented. In Irpin, a town in Ukraine, kids have come back to the kindergarten reconstructed through joint funding of Taiwan and Lithuania. During one of my recent visits to Kyiv, when this kindergarten was still badly damaged, I had the opportunity to visit the site in person. At the time of my visit, it seemed impossible to believe that kids would be returning back to that particular place in a little over a year. Therefore, to me, this revitalized kindergarten is the best example of what democracies can do when they work together.
She continued to stress that Our joint efforts to rebuild Ukraine will have to be sustainable and substantial. The World Bank estimates that around €400 billion may be needed to reconstruct Ukraine, but each day of the war raises that bill. The best way to ease this burden, but also, and more importantly the burden of daily suffering and tragedy bestowed upon the people of Ukraine would be for Russia to end the war immediately and withdraw from the occupied territories. This is what all the democracies globally should aim for.
Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen in conclusion recognized the efforts of all legislators of Taiwan’s congress for sharing the same belief. She hoped that as beacons of democracy in our respective regions, together we can light the way to a brighter and safer future for our people. She wished the relations between Taiwan and Lithuania serve as a proof of the potential emerging from joint action of democracies. Through partnership and mutual respect, we will meet the challenges of our time and build a legacy of strength, resilience and progress. May the bond that two countries share continue to be an inspiring example of the vitality of democratic cooperation. After her speech, all legislators and esteemed guests gave her a standing ovation.
After President You listened to her speech, he concluded that he
I want to thank the Hon. Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, for her inspiring speech. Her remarks reveal her political wisdom as well as her keen vision. She reminds us that democracies should be alert to the treacherous expansion of autocracy. As authoritarianism continues to encroach on global democratic society, democracies should render each other staunch support to safeguard and fight for universal values. He greatly admired Lithuania’s courage and determination in fighting against big powers to support Taiwan and Ukraine. Taiwan will continue to stand with Lithuania, Ukraine, and its other democracy- and freedom-loving allies around the world to oppose the malicious forces that would undermine democracy, freedom, and regional peace and stability.
At this crucial juncture, let us work hand in hand to fight for a better future. he wanted to thank Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen once again for her presence. He hoped she and her delegation have a fruitful visit in Taiwan. Please convey the respect and friendship of Taiwan’s people and congress to the people and government of Lithuania.
Afterwords, Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen This was surrounded by cross-party legislators for selfies. concludes the speech session. Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen was overwhelmed by their warm welcome and cordial friendship. Lastly, President You, Madame You along with all participating legislators, distinguished guests, Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen and her delegation had a big group photo in front of the chamber. The visit took about 80 minutes as Speaker Čmilytė-Nielsen and the delegation left the Legislative Yuan.
