A senior Taiwanese politician expressed confusion over recent comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron on Taiwan, questioning whether France's founding principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity are now outdated.
In an interview during a visit to China aimed at demonstrating European unity on China policy, Macron warned against getting embroiled in a crisis over Taiwan fueled by "an American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction." He also advocated for the European Union to lessen its reliance on the United States and emerge as a "third pole" in global affairs, alongside Washington and Beijing.
Taiwan's parliament speaker, You Si-kun, posted on Facebook late Tuesday above a screenshot of a news report on Macron's Taiwan remarks, questioning France's dedication to freedom. "Are 'liberté, égalité, fraternité' out of fashion?" he wrote, alluding to the official French motto. He went on to question whether it was acceptable to disregard these principles once they were enshrined in the constitution or if advanced democratic countries could overlook the lives and deaths of people in other nations.
"The actions of President Macron, a leading international democracy, leave me puzzled," added You, one of the founding members of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party.
Since Saturday, China has conducted military exercises near Taiwan following President Tsai Ing-wen's return from a trip to the United States, where she met with U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Although France, like most countries, lacks formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed Taiwan, it operates a de facto embassy in Taipei and has joined other U.S. allies in emphasizing the need for peace in the Taiwan Strait.
On Tuesday, Taiwan's foreign ministry attempted to downplay Macron's comments, though acknowledged that they had taken note of his statements. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jeff Liu expressed gratitude to France for repeatedly showing concern for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at various international forums, including the recent French-British leaders' summit. "This is a continuation of France's consistent stance and position," Liu told reporters.
Macron's remarks have raised questions about France's commitment to its foundational ideals and whether the country is prepared to stand up for the values it has long cherished. As tensions between the U.S., China, and Taiwan continue to escalate, the role of France and other European nations in maintaining global stability and promoting democratic principles will be closely watched.
