The Legislature’s Republic of China - Middle East Parliamentary Amity Association was officially established on Friday. Initiator and chairwoman Ma Wen-chun (馬文君) stated that the group will promote bilateral and multilateral parliamentary dialogue to deepen the Middle East's understanding of Taiwan’s freedom and democracy, thereby securing greater international support and friendship. 

Legislative Yuan Deputy Secretary-General Chang Yu-jung (張裕榮), Deputy Foreign Minister Wu Chih-chung (吳志中), and Overseas Community Affairs Council Deputy Minister Yen Hui Lee (李妍慧), shared their congratulations and thanks for the efforts advancing Taiwan-Middle East exchanges.

Ma noted that Taiwan has historically held formal diplomatic ties with Jordan, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia, among others. Despite shifts in international situations and diplomatic adjustments, exchanges with Middle Eastern countries have never ceased.   

Lee called the association’s formation a landmark for parliamentary diplomacy and highlighted ongoing interactions in trade, technology, energy, medical, education, and culture sectors. For instance, in the 2024 academic year, about 69 Taiwanese students studied in the Middle East, while 479 from the region attended Taiwan's colleges. 

Lee said, “This shows steady development in educational exchanges between Taiwan and Middle Eastern countries, laying a foundation for deeper, future cooperation. We hope that under the leadership of the association, we can further deepen exchanges with Middle Eastern parliamentarians and various sectors, promoting mutually beneficial substantive cooperation.” 

The deputy foreign minister emphasized the Middle East as a key energy and trade partner for Taiwan. The ministry has hosted over 20 regional parliamentarians in recent years, bolstering confidence in ties, with plans to deepen bilateral relations in law enforcement, security, and humanitarian aid.