Foreign Minister Joseph Wu Attends France's National Day Reception, Announces Relocation of French Institute in Taiwan

(Taipei, July 14 — Reporter Yang Yao-ju) Foreign Minister Joseph Wu posted on social media today, announcing at the French National Day reception that the French Institute in Taiwan will relocate to the U.S. aid dormitory complex on Chang'an East Road in Taipei. He also expressed gratitude to French Representative to Taiwan Franck Paris (Long Ye) for his dedication to Taiwan-France relations over the past three years. Paris said he has deeply fallen in love with Taiwan, stating, "I will never forget Taiwan."

Wu posted on Facebook this evening, noting that he attended the French National Day reception at the invitation of the French Institute in Taiwan, representing the government and people of Taiwan in extending sincere congratulations.

Wu pointed out that July 14 is a significant day for the French people. The revolutionary ideals of "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" continue to resonate over two centuries later, remaining core democratic values cherished by both Taiwan and France. In recent years, France has consistently voiced its concern for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, demonstrating firm support for its democratic partners.

Wu recalled that during the 2024 Paris Olympics, through the active facilitation of Taiwan's representative office in France, the city of Levallois near Paris generously provided its municipal sports center as a training and transit base for Team Taiwan, allowing athletes to prepare with peace of mind. This story, he said, exemplifies the tangible support between Taiwan and France during pivotal moments.

Wu stated that since taking office, he has repeatedly traveled to Europe to advance comprehensive diplomacy, with France being a key partner in deepening Taiwan's European ties. Taiwan and France continue to expand cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), solid-state batteries, and space technology, jointly enhancing the resilience of democratic supply chains, while also deepening cultural, artistic, and youth exchanges.

Wu expressed delight in announcing tonight that the French Institute in Taiwan will soon move into the U.S. aid dormitory complex on Chang'an East Road in Taipei. In the future, this historically rich building will serve as a new hub for exchanges in French language, culture, art, and cuisine.

Wu extended special thanks to outgoing representative Franck Paris, who has dedicated significant efforts to strengthening bilateral relations over the past three years. He emphasized that Taiwan and France can build upon the solid foundation laid during Paris's tenure to foster even greater cooperation and contribute more to regional and global security and prosperity.

Wu quoted Paris as saying emotionally tonight, "I will never forget Taiwan, nor its people." Paris also shared that experiencing Taiwan's diversity and passion made him deeply fall in love with the island, adding that anyone who has visited Taiwan will surely return. (Edited by Hsieh Chia-chen) 1150714