Tsai Ing-wen Receives warm Welcome in Berlin Ahead of Keynote Speech on Global Freedom
Berlin,Nov. 9 (CNA) – Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen arrived in Berlin Sunday and was greeted with flowers upon reaching her hotel, signaling a warm reception ahead of her scheduled keynote address at the Berlin Freedom Conference on Monday.The visit underscores Taiwan’s continued commitment to strengthening ties with Europe and advocating for democratic values on the international stage.
Tsai’s participation in the conference, a central event of Berlin Freedom Week, is a significant moment for Taiwan as it seeks to deepen partnerships with like-minded nations amidst rising global authoritarianism. Her trip follows a recent European tour by Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, including a landmark speech to the European Parliament – a first for a sitting Taiwanese vice president – demonstrating a concerted effort to elevate Taiwan’s profile and foster collaboration. “We will keep working hard,” Tsai told media gathered at the hotel.
The Berlin Freedom Conference, co-organized by the Berlin city government, the Axel Springer Freedom Foundation, and the World Liberty Congress, brings together global civil society leaders, human rights advocates, and experts to discuss strategies for defending and bolstering freedom and democracy. Confirmed speakers alongside Tsai include German Bundestag President Julia Klöckner, Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner, Venezuelan opposition leader Leopoldo López, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, and Taiwanese Minister-at-Large Audrey Tang.
Prior to her departure for Germany, tsai emphasized Taiwan’s role as a trustworthy international partner, stating the nation will continue to stand with Europe and othre democratic countries in upholding freedom and democracy. This visit marks her latest engagement with European partners,following previous trips to the Czech Republic,France,Belgium,Lithuania,Denmark,and the United Kingdom as leaving office in May. She previously noted on social media that “diplomacy is a relay with no breaks,” praising Hsiao’s recent trip as a “significant milestone for Taiwan.”
