Taiwan’s Vice President Makes Rare Europe Visit as China Calls Trip ‘Despicable’

Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is making a rare visit to Europe, attending the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy in Italy alongside Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. The trip was kept quiet until Hsiao arrived, amid concerns about Beijing’s reaction. China lodged formal protests with Italy and the European Union, accusing Taiwan’s government of seeking attention and calling the visit “despicable.” Italy has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but the two maintain unofficial representative offices and economic links abroad.