Taiwan Launches “Culture in Europe 2025” to Showcase Democratic Values and Artistic Depth Across 26 Nations
Taipei, Taiwan – Taiwan has embarked on an ambitious cultural initiative, “Taiwan Culture in Europe 2025,” a comprehensive project designed to foster deeper understanding of its vibrant society and democratic values among European audiences. Launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Ministry of Culture (MOC), this significant undertaking will span 26 European countries, featuring over 70 distinct cultural events throughout the year. The initiative aims to present Taiwan’s rich heritage and creative spirit, highlighting shared democratic principles and multiculturalism.
Elevating Taiwan’s Global Profile Through Culture
This expansive program is a key component of Taiwan’s strategy to enhance its international visibility and strengthen ties with Europe, moving beyond its well-established reputation in technology and economics. Deputy Foreign Minister François Chih-chung Wu articulated that cultural diplomacy is a crucial avenue for raising Taiwan’s global profile, noting that such exchanges effectively counter political isolation efforts. The initiative’s slogan, “From Tech to Culture, Taiwan Leads the Future,” encapsulates this dual focus.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has underscored culture’s pivotal role in President Lai Ching-te’s vision of “value-based diplomacy,” using arts and heritage as a bridge to connect with the global community. The timing of these intensified efforts is considered opportune, as global events have fostered a growing appreciation for Taiwan’s geopolitical significance and democratic resilience among European nations. Recent years have seen Taiwan’s profile rise due to its contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, its critical role in global geopolitics, and its leadership in the semiconductor industry.
Highlights of Cultural Exchange and Artistic Expression
A centerpiece of the “Taiwan Culture in Europe 2025” project is a major exhibition of treasures from Taiwan’s National Palace Museum. Scheduled from September 11 to December 31, 2025, at the Czech National Museum in Prague, the exhibition, titled “100 Treasures, 100 Stories,” will display 131 significant artifacts, including the renowned “Jadeite Cabbage.” In November, a further exhibition will take place at the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac in Paris, focusing on the dragon motif through various artworks and historical objects.
The project also features robust participation from Taiwan’s premier performing arts groups. The National Symphony Orchestra has already completed a tour of Austria and Lithuania in June, and the Indigenous Vox Nativa Children’s Choir has performed in the Vatican, Germany, and Austria. Later in the year, ensembles such as U-Theatre, the National Chinese Orchestra Taiwan, and the Ju Percussion Group are slated for European tours, engaging audiences with diverse musical and theatrical expressions.
Earlier in the year, Taiwanese artists and groups also made their mark at prominent international events, including the Venice Biennale, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, and Napoli Comicon, showcasing the breadth of Taiwan’s contemporary arts scene. These events, organized in collaboration with Taiwan’s representative offices across Europe, aim to deepen cultural dialogues and exchanges.
Fostering Shared Values and Mutual Understanding
The “Taiwan Culture in Europe 2025” initiative represents a strategic investment in Taiwan’s international relationships, leveraging cultural soft power to build goodwill and mutual respect. By presenting its unique cultural narratives, Taiwan seeks to deepen European understanding of its democratic journey, its societal values, and its role as a vibrant, free society. This broad cultural outreach is expected to solidify Taiwan’s position as a reliable partner and a significant contributor to the international community, resonating with European audiences on shared principles of freedom, diversity, and innovation. This recent news highlights a concerted effort to make Taiwan’s culture more accessible and appreciated globally.
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