Taiwan's Diplomatic Breakthrough: The Decline of the CCP's 'One China Policy'

On November 7, 2025, Taiwan's Vice President Hsiao Mei-chin delivered a speech at the European Parliament, which was met with thunderous applause, as European Parliament members eagerly sought to take photos with her. (Video screenshot)

[People News] The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been actively suppressing Taiwan on the international stage, employing various tactics to limit Taiwan's diplomatic space, resulting in a dwindling number of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, which currently stands at just 12. However, the CCP's aggressive 'wolf warrior' diplomacy appears to be losing momentum, with an increasing number of countries unafraid of the CCP's 'One China Policy' threats, openly engaging in friendly exchanges with Taiwan. The Republic of China is gaining more popularity and respect on the global stage. In the recent meeting between Trump and Xi in South Korea, the CCP was so cautious that it refrained from even mentioning 'Taiwan,' leading to a more pragmatic discussion without verbal confrontations. This action by the United States may signal a new direction for Western countries.

As reported by Taiwanese media, the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) summit regarding EU-China policy took place on November 7, 2025, at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium. The Republic of China participated for the first time as a formal member state, with Vice President Hsiao Mei-chin attending in person and delivering a speech that emphasised Taiwan as a 'reliable partner' in a world filled with turmoil and an 'indispensable part' of the international community's dialogue on peace, prosperity, and democracy. This speech not only garnered international attention but also sparked discussions within Taiwan. In response, the CCP expressed strong indignation and has made serious representations to the European side.

Xiao Meiqin returned to Taiwan on November 9. In her speech at Taoyuan International Airport upon her return, she remarked that Taiwan's international situation has always been quite challenging, but "we have never backed down, allowing the world to see the good in Taiwan and support us. We will continue to confidently, pragmatically, and steadfastly demonstrate Taiwan's aspirations, goodwill, and the strength of democracy to the world." 

Lin Jialong, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China, noted that Xiao Meiqin's public speeches in Europe represent a new approach and space, during which the EU and relevant European countries must resist pressure from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Historically, European nations have faced significant pressure from Beijing; however, the EU has recently begun to emphasise strategic autonomy, asserting that it cannot accept the CCP's interpretation of the "One China Principle." From meetings of G7 foreign ministers to statements from the European Parliament regarding UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, which does not pertain to Taiwan, the EU has its so-called "One China Policy," and "there can also be a 'One Taiwan Policy.'" The Russian invasion of Ukraine has fostered greater empathy among European countries towards Taiwan, and Taiwan's significance on the global stage is steadily increasing. 

DPP spokesperson Zhuo Guanting disclosed in the online program "94要賺錢" that to prevent the CCP's encirclement and obstruction, Xiao Meiqin's trip was kept highly confidential. Until the very last moment before her departure, she believed it was a video conference. Zhuo Guanting stated, "When the CCP became aware that Xiao Meiqin was scheduled to speak at the European Parliament, it began to exert pressure on EU countries. Even when Xiao Meiqin's advance team’s plane was about to land in Belgian airspace, all aircraft were suddenly grounded for unknown reasons, leading to a temporary closure of the entire airport."

Xu Guoyong, Secretary-General of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party, emphasised that the IPAC summit is a crucial diplomatic event for Taiwan. The entire nation is thrilled that Hsiao Mei-chin was able to deliver her speech successfully at IPAC. 'We are happy for her; this serves as the greatest encouragement for the recognition of Taiwan's freedom and democracy on the global stage.'

In response to the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) outcry, Xu remarked, 'China is unhappy about everything, so we can only allow it to remain unhappy.'

On November 8, Taiwanese lawyer Lin Zhiqun took to Facebook to comment on Vice President Hsiao Mei-chin's speech at the European Parliament, noting that Foreign Minister Lin Jialong now treats Europe as a kitchen. 'This was unimaginable during President Ma Ying-jeou's administration!' He candidly stated that the European Parliament only acknowledges 'Taiwan.' The so-called 'going out' during Ma's presidency was akin to being led by the CCP on a dog leash, whereas Tsai Ing-wen and Hsiao Mei-chin have demonstrated that using 'Taiwan' can also lead to success; only by using 'Taiwan' can we truly make progress.

Lin Zhiqun's post quickly gained traction online, igniting lively discussions among netizens, many of whom agreed in the comments: 'Being led by a dog leash is a very fitting description,' 'Vice President Hsiao's English name is derived from Taiwanese!' 'Incompetent Ma caused Taiwan to suffer for eight years. 'Consequently, many people in the country are in despair every day, insisting that Taiwan is not a country.'

Some Taiwanese netizens remarked, 'The CCP's furious reaction indicates that we have done the right thing.'

In an interview on the program 'Advancing New Taiwan,' senior media figure Wang Ruide (王瑞德) remarked that due to the efforts of Taiwan's diplomatic staff, Taiwanese individuals are increasingly respected abroad. He provided an example from his recent entry into Italy. Despite Italy being a participant in the Chinese Communist Party's 'Belt and Road' initiative, the Italian customs officials immediately allowed him to pass through upon seeing his Taiwanese passport, without any questions or even a stamp. In contrast, tourists holding the red passport of the People's Republic of China had to endure questioning and inspections, resulting in a long queue. △