The Chairperson of the Mainland Affairs Council, Chiu Chui-Cheng, recently met with UK lawmaker Gavin Williamson, where they exchanged views on Cross-Strait relations and regional affairs. Chiu expressed gratitude for Williamson's past focus on Indo-Pacific security issues during his tenure as UK's Defense Secretary, as well as his long-standing support for Taiwan.

Williamson was invited to Taiwan to participate in a forum, where he publicly stated that during his time as Defense Secretary, he ordered Royal Navy vessels to pass through the Taiwan Strait, which drew protests from Beijing, but he remained committed to countering bullying actions as a clear expression of support for Taiwan.

After 17 years, Williamson noted significant growth in Taiwan and its increasingly important role in global affairs, asserting that Taiwan represents the good side, and that all democratic countries should be Taiwan's friends in a united effort against authoritarian regimes while deepening cooperation in various fields.

Chiu acknowledged the complexities, sensitivities, and importance of Cross-Strait relations, emphasizing that they are critical to the survival and future development of the Taiwanese people, and that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are indispensable for global security and prosperity. He reiterated that the government remains committed to maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and hopes for dialogue based on mutual respect and equal dignity.

Chiu emphasized that while idealistic about peace, there are no illusions in the face of the multifaceted threats and challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party. The government will fully implement President Lai's "Four Pillars for Peace Action Plan," strengthening resilience in economics, society, and security, while deepening cooperation with like-minded nations such as the UK to jointly uphold universal values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.