Strengthening Europe-Taiwan Relations: Ex-Danish PM Advocates Closer Ties

Europe urged to deepen ties wiht Taiwan amid shifting global dynamics

Taipei, March 17, 2025 – Former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen called for stronger European-Taiwan relations on Monday, highlighting the geopolitical shifts resulting from the return of an “American First” policy under President Donald Trump. rasmussen delivered the keynote address at a Taipei forum during a luncheon, focusing on the evolving relationship between Europe, Taiwan, and the United States amidst global power dynamics.

Rasmussen highlights Prospect for Europe and Taiwan

Rasmussen argued that the re-emergence of “American First,” where domestic issues take precedence over Washington’s global leadership, presents a unique opportunity for Europe and Taiwan. While acknowledging his initial concerns, Rasmussen stated, “there is a silver lining — both for europe and for Taiwan” as of the shift in American foreign policy. This new reality requires Europe to reassess its reliance on external resources and security guarantees.

Europe’s Wake-Up Call: Freedom isn’t Free

Rasmussen pointed out Europe had become dependent on “cheap Russian energy, cheap Chinese goods, and cheap American security.” He emphasized that Europe is now “waking up to the old motto on the Washington Korea memorial which says: ‘Freedom is not Free.'” This necessitates increased defense spending, investment in critical infrastructure, and a greater focus on societal resilience. He believes that the shift in US foreign policy is pushing Europe to take more responsibility for its security.

“In some ways, President Trump is doing us a favor. This kind of changed mindset has been needed in Europe for some time,” Rasmussen said,noting the necessity for Europe to proactively ensure its security and stability amid a more complex global arena.

Global Threats and the Pivot to the Pacific

Rasmussen warned of broader implications, stating that while the immediate threat to Europe is Russia, “dictators are looking at what happens in Ukraine and drawing their own lessons.” He also noted the United States’ shift of focus towards the Pacific, driven by concerns over China’s growing influence. According to Rasmussen, the U.S.’ “hard pivot away” from Europe is “driven by a focus on power competition in the Pacific,” as “China is the existential threat to American hegemony.”

A New Golden Era for Europe-Taiwan Relations

With the U.S. potentially reducing its role as the defender of global democracy, Rasmussen urged Europe to deepen its relationship with Taiwan, as “If the United States is vacating its role as champion of freedom and democracy, Europe’s friendship with Taiwan must now enter a new golden era.” The strengthening of economic and trade relations through initiatives like the European Union’s Chips Act, coupled with expanded “tech diplomacy and cooperation,” are crucial steps.

Ultimately,Rasmussen emphasized the importance of solidarity,stating,”Above all,Europe must stand with Taiwan — economically,politically,even militarily. Not just because of some short-term interests but because, in a dangerous and unpredictable world, freedom fighters stand together.”

Taiwan’s Perspective: Indispensable Partner

Also at the Yushan Forum luncheon, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim highlighted Taiwan’s commitment to global stability. Hsiao Bi-khim stated that Taiwan is striving to ensure it remains “irreplaceable and indispensable as a trusted economic and trade partner to the world” against the backdrop of an “unprecedented” geopolitical and economic landscape.

Taiwan takes its promise to uphold geopolitical stability seriously,the Vice President added,underscoring Taiwan’s broader contributions.

“At the same time, Taiwan is much more than a geopolitical headline. We have a lot to offer the world. And the world can benefit from having a strong Taiwan,” she added,emphasizing the mutual benefits of Taiwan’s continued growth and stability.

Yushan Forum 2025: A Focus on Innovation and Collaboration

The 2025 Yushan Forum, themed “New Southbound Policy+: Taiwan, the Indo-pacific, and a New World,” aims to foster collaboration and leverage Taiwan’s strengths in digital and innovative solutions to promote the “Digital New Southbound Policy.” The forum will include multiple discussions with like-minded partners, focusing on digital innovation and collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Europe and Taiwan

The call for stronger European-Taiwan relations arrives at a critical juncture. as global power dynamics shift and the U.S. potentially recalibrates its international role, Europe has an opportunity to step up and forge deeper alliances with key partners such as Taiwan. By strengthening economic, political, and even military ties, Europe and Taiwan can jointly defend freedom and democracy in an increasingly uncertain world. Explore how you can support initiatives that promote collaboration between Europe and Taiwan and promote a more secure and prosperous future.

Given the rising global uncertainties, how do you envision the partnership between Europe and Taiwan evolving over the next decade, and what specific areas of collaboration should be prioritized?

Europe and Taiwan: Building a New Era of Cooperation

Today, we’re speaking with Dr. Anya sharma, a Senior Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, specializing in transatlantic relations and Indo-Pacific security. Dr. Sharma, welcome to Archyde.

Shifting Geopolitical Landscapes: The Catalyst for Deeper Ties

Archyde: Dr. Sharma, former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen recently emphasized the need for stronger Europe-Taiwan relations, citing a potential shift in US foreign policy. What’s your viewpoint on this?

Dr. Sharma: It’s a critical observation. Rasmussen’s point about a possible “American First” approach under a new administration is a wake-up call for Europe.The geopolitical landscape is indeed shifting, and Europe needs to proactively forge closer alliances, especially with partners like Taiwan, who share democratic values and a commitment to a rules-based international order.

Europe’s Wake-Up Call: Beyond Dependency

Archyde: Rasmussen spoke about Europe’s dependence on “cheap Russian energy, cheap Chinese goods, and cheap American security.” How can Europe address these dependencies and take more ownership of its security and resilience?

Dr. Sharma: Diversification is key. Europe needs to invest in its own energy security, diversify its supply chains, and considerably increase its defence spending.The EU’s initiatives like the Chips Act are vital for bolstering technological independence. Ultimately, Europe needs to be prepared to act autonomously to protect its interests and values.

The Pivot to the Pacific and Taiwan’s Significance

Archyde: The US appears to be increasingly focused on the Indo-Pacific region due to concerns about China’s growing influence.How does Taiwan fit into this strategic picture, and why is it crucial for Europe to engage more actively with taiwan?

Dr. Sharma: Taiwan is at the heart of the Indo-Pacific strategy. It’s a vibrant democracy, a key economic player, and a technological powerhouse. Ignoring Taiwan isn’t an option for europe. Strengthening economic ties, supporting Taiwan’s democratic institutions, and engaging in “tech diplomacy” are essential to counterbalance China’s influence and ensure stability in the region. As Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim stated,Taiwan strives to be an indispensable partner to the world.

A New Golden Era: What does It Look Like?

Archyde: Rasmussen suggested that Europe’s friendship with Taiwan must enter a “new golden era.” What concrete steps can Europe take to achieve this?

Dr. Sharma: A “new golden era” would involve a multi-faceted approach.Increased high-level political dialogues, deepening trade and investment relationships, expanded cultural exchanges, and even exploring security cooperation are critical. Europe can leverage its economic power and diplomatic influence to support Taiwan on the international stage and push back against attempts to isolate it.

Solidarity and the Future of Freedom

Archyde: Rasmussen underscored the importance of solidarity with Taiwan, stating that “freedom fighters stand together.” What are the long-term implications of europe standing with Taiwan?

Dr. Sharma: Standing with Taiwan sends a powerful message that Europe values democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It strengthens the international coalition of like-minded nations committed to these values.In an increasingly uncertain world, this solidarity is crucial for deterring aggression and promoting a more secure and prosperous future.

A Question for Our Readers

Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for your insightful analysis. our readers, given the rising global uncertainties, how do you envision the partnership between Europe and Taiwan evolving over the next decade, and what specific areas of collaboration should be prioritized? Share your thoughts in the comments below!