On the morning of June 20, Deputy Secretary General Dr. Chang Yu-Jung of the Legislative Yuan attended the inaugural ceremony of the Taiwan-Liechtenstein Parliamentary Friendship Association and the Taiwan-Malta Parliamentary Friendship Association, initiated by DPP Legislator Kuo Yu-Ching. In attendance were DPP Legislators Chung Chia-Pin, Dr. Lin Yueh-Chin, Dr. Wang Cheng-Hsu, Dr. Chuang Jui-Hsiung, Lin Chu-Yin, Wang Mei-Hui, Hsu Chih-Chieh, Dr. Chen Ying, Chen Hsiu-Pao, Tsai Yi-Yu, Dr. Chen Ting-Fei, Dr. Fan Yun, and Chang Hung-Lu. Distinguished guests also present at the event included Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Amb. François Chihchung Wu, Ambassador-designate to Switzerland Wang Szu-Wei, Director-General Eric Jiun-Yaw Huang of the Department of European Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), as well as Lutz Güllner, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan.

The ceremony began with opening remarks by the initiator, Legislator Kuo, followed by the approval of the associations’ charter and the election of the presidents and vice presidents. Deputy Secretary General Chang stated that it was an honor to represent Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han in attending the inauguration of the Taiwan-Liechtenstein Parliamentary Friendship Association and the Taiwan-Malta Parliamentary Friendship Association. He acknowledged Legislator Kuo’s dedicated efforts in establishing and promoting the associations, and expressed his gratitude to all the attending legislators and guests.

Deputy Secretary General Chang said that although Malta and Liechtenstein are relatively small in land area and population, both of them are European countries with long histories, sound institutions, and a steadfast commitment to the values of democracy and human rights. Like Taiwan, Malta and Liechtenstein side with the global democratic camp and firmly uphold freedom and the rule of law, serving as quiet yet resilient forces. Amid rapid geopolitical shifts and ongoing challenges to democracy, mutual support and cooperation among smaller nations are more crucial than ever. Taiwan, Malta, and Liechtenstein share core values and a strong dedication to peace and human dignity, which together provide a solid foundation for future collaboration and joint endeavors.

Deputy Secretary General Chang further pointed out that parliaments lie at the heart of democratic governance of each nation, and that inter-parliamentary dialogue is not only an extension of diplomacy but also a reflection of public will and a testament to growing friendships. He shared his hope that the establishment of these two friendship associations would lead to more reciprocal parliamentary visits, enhanced cooperation, and constructive policy dialogue. Deputy Secretary General Chang also conveyed his optimism for future exchanges in education, culture, trade and economy, and sustainable development, generating new ideas and synergies together.

In conclusion, Deputy Secretary General Chang emphasized that the Legislative Yuan will fully support the promotion and development of parliamentary friendship associations, ensuring that parliamentary diplomacy goes beyond formality and becomes a meaningful, tangible, and sustainable platform for engagement. Should opportunities arise in the future, he sincerely welcomed parliamentarians from Malta and Liechtenstein to visit Taiwan, promising a warm and heartfelt reception that reflects Taiwan’s unique hospitality. Deputy Secretary General Chang voiced his hope that today’s inauguration would serve as a starting point for stronger ties between Taiwan and the international community.

Lutz Güllner, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan, then gave congratulatory remarks, followed by warm exchanges between Legislator Kuo and the distinguished guests in attendance. The inaugural ceremony concluded smoothly in approximately 20 minutes.