French Representative in Taiwan, Franck Paris, Honored with Order of Brilliant Star by President Lai

(Taipei, April 15, 2024, reporter Yang Yao-ju) President Lai Ching-te today conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon upon Franck Paris, Director of the French Office in Taipei, in recognition of his efforts in deepening bilateral cooperation across political, cultural, and scientific fields during his tenure, elevating Taiwan-France relations to a new strategic height. Paris stated, "France will always be Taiwan's partner."

Paris arrived in August 2023 and will conclude his term and depart Taiwan on July 16 this year. President Lai presented the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon at the Presidential Office today, acknowledging Paris's dedication to promoting friendly Taiwan-France cooperation. Presidential Secretary-General Pan Men-an, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu, and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung attended the ceremony.

President Lai expressed Taiwan's deepest gratitude for Paris's outstanding contributions through the award. He noted that over the past few years, he has deeply felt Paris's passion and innovative spirit, which not only elevated Taiwan-France relations to a new strategic level but also touched many with his efforts to learn Mandarin in his spare time, demonstrating a sincere commitment to Taiwan.

Lai emphasized that under Paris's tenure, political interactions between Taiwan and France achieved significant milestones, including France hosting former President Tsai Ing-wen's visit in 2024—a meaningful event for bilateral relations. Under President Macron's leadership, joint statements such as the Japan-France Leaders' Communiqué and the G7 Leaders' Summit Communiqué have consistently voiced firm support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region. This steadfast solidarity, Lai said, is deeply cherished by the people of Taiwan.

The president highlighted Paris's role in advancing the "Youth Dream Fund Abroad" initiative, enabling over 100 Taiwanese youth to pursue their dreams in France. He said the people of Taiwan now see not only a France of arts and culture but also one of science and a trusted partner standing shoulder to shoulder.

Lai expressed Taiwan's desire to remain a key partner in France's pursuit of "strategic autonomy" and "reindustrialization," building upon the solid foundation laid by Paris to continue writing new chapters of cooperation in Taiwan-France relations.

Expressing sadness at Paris's departure, Lai extended heartfelt wishes for his success in his new role. "Taiwan will always be your home," he said, inviting Paris to return to play football, visit his favorite Hualien, and reunite with old friends. He looks forward to jointly witnessing the deepening of Taiwan-France ties and achieving even greater outcomes.

In his remarks, Paris thanked the president for the honor and shared the recognition with the team at the French Office in Taipei and Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He said daily collaboration with Taiwan's MFA has been a pleasure. He specifically thanked Liang You-wen, CEO of Chip Sieng Industrial, for deepening his understanding of Taiwan's semiconductor industry and opening many doors.

Paris expressed gratitude to President Lai for contributions to Taiwan-France and Taiwan-EU relations, citing concrete achievements, especially in technological cooperation, such as Foxconn's investments in semiconductor and AI industries in France. On cultural cooperation, he welcomed the reopening of the Alliance Française in Taiwan and thanked Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung for his support.

Regarding political relations, Paris noted that this year saw visits by several Taiwanese ministers, including those of science and technology, culture, and economy, to France. "France will always be Taiwan's partner, especially under international law," he affirmed. Economically, he stressed that France and Taiwan are not competitors but complementary partners, with synergies applicable in space, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and other fields.

Paris revealed his new role upon return to France will be Director of the Paris Peace Forum, from which he will continue to promote Taiwan-France relations. He said he will tell the incoming French representative, "You have the best job in the world and a fantastic opportunity." He expressed heartfelt thanks for the warm hospitality of the Taiwanese people and assured President Lai, "I promise you, Taiwan now has a friend in Paris." (Edited by Tsai Szu-chia) 1150715