On the morning of September 11, Deputy Secretary General Dr. Chang Yu-Jung (張裕榮) of the Legislative Yuan, accompanied by Director Kevin C.F. Lin of the Department of International Affairs, received a ten-member delegation from the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC).

On behalf of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and its President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜), Deputy Secretary General Chang began by extending a warm welcome to ASDC President Jane Kleeb and her delegation. He expressed sincere appreciation to the Democratic Party for adopting a new party platform at its 2024 National Convention that included pro-Taiwan language, reaffirming the party’s firm commitment—based on the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances—to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He went on to note that since President Trump took office, members of both the Democratic and Republican parties in Congress formed a bipartisan delegation that visited Taiwan in April 2025, further strengthening Taiwan-U.S. friendship. He also added that through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the annual Consolidated Appropriations Act, the U.S. Congress has introduced multiple Taiwan-supportive provisions and funding allocations, which underscores the United States’ steadfast commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and its continued support for enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities. He added that Taiwan’s ruling and opposition parties alike deeply appreciate these efforts.

Deputy Secretary General Chang emphasized that over the past several decades, Taiwan-U.S. relations have grown increasingly close and remained rock-solid. He noted that the U.S. Congress, with bipartisan consensus, has demonstrated unwavering support for Taiwan by passing more than 30 Taiwan-related bills and resolutions covering security, trade and economy, and diplomacy, thereby laying a stronger foundation for bilateral friendship. He highlighted that the current Legislative Yuan USA Caucus, with Vice President Dr. Johnny C. Chiang (江啟臣) serving as Honorary President, brings together senior legislators from both the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as Co-Chairs, and representatives from three parties as Vice Chairs. With a total of 72 members, it is the largest and most influential bipartisan platform for inter-parliamentary friendship within the Legislative Yuan. He expressed hope that through parliamentary diplomacy, Taiwan and the United States will continue to deepen their partnership in an even more comprehensive way.

In her remarks, ASDC President Jane Kleeb thanked Deputy Secretary General Chang for taking the time to meet with the delegation. She emphasized that the U.S. Congress—regardless of party affiliation—will continue to support Taiwan as it faces the growing threats from China. She expressed sorrow over the recent death of conservative youth activist Charlie Kirk who was shot during a campus event, noting that the tragedy underscores the deepening ideological divide in the United States and the increasing threat of violence faced by public figures. She stressed the responsibility of political leaders to confront violence and hate speech with accountability. ASDC President Kleeb affirmed that the Democratic Party has always been committed to peace, and believes that everyone should enjoy freedom of expression free from the threat of violence. At this critical moment, she said, the delegation hopes to use this visit to Taiwan to engage in in-depth discussions on shared Taiwan-U.S. concerns, including trade and economy, youth employment, security, housing, environmental protection, and climate change.

In response, Deputy Secretary General Chang quoted the famous words of French philosopher Voltaire, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” He said this captures the core value of freedom of speech. He expressed deep regret over the violent killing of the young U.S. political leader Charlie Kirk and offered sincere condolences to his family. Deputy Secretary General Chang noted that politics is built on consensus and compromise among groups with different interests, and highlighted that Taiwan’s political culture embraces differing opinions, and all legislative proposals undergo cross-party caucus negotiation and thorough discussion, adding that the Legislative Yuan conducts its duties according to the principles of democracy, efficiency, and harmony, without resorting to violence. He expressed hope that Taiwan and the United States will continue to strengthen their friendship and cooperation on this solid foundation.

The two sides then held a wide-ranging exchange of views on issues, including strengthening Taiwan-U.S. friendship, countering misinformation, promoting youth political participation, addressing housing challenges, improving legislative efficiency, and fostering inter-party harmony and consensus. The meeting lasted approximately one hour in a warm and cordial atmosphere, concluding successfully with an exchange of gifts and a group photo