Taiwan's vice president on rare Europe visit which China calls 'despicable'

Key Points:

• Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is making a rare visit to Europe to attend the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy in Italy, accompanied by Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung.
• China condemned the trip as "despicable," lodging formal protests with Italy and the European Union, and criticized Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party for seeking international attention.
• Italy's government is maintaining a low profile on the visit, with no planned meetings between Taiwanese officials and Italian ministers, reflecting the sensitive nature of Taiwan's international engagements amid Chinese pressure.
• Hsiao's attendance was initially kept secret due to concerns about Beijing's reaction, highlighting ongoing tensions as Taiwan seeks closer ties with Europe amid broader geopolitical disputes involving China.
• Taiwan continues to assert its democratic identity and self-determination, rejecting China's claim over the island, while Europe balances diplomatic relations with both Taiwan and China.