Taipei, Nov. 9: Taiwan is not alone and has more and more friends around the world and will continue to show the world its resolve, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim said on Sunday after returning from a landmark diplomatic-breakthrough trip to Europe.

While Taiwan foreign ministers on occasion visit Europe and other parts of the world that have no formal ties to Chinese-claimed Taipei, it is rare for an official as senior as the vice president to do so, given the risk of backlash from Beijing against the host nation. Hsiao spoke at the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China’s annual summit, held in the European Parliament in Brussels.

Hsiao, speaking at the airport upon returning home, said Taiwan’s international situation has been extremely difficult but Taiwan has never backed down, because it should have the chance to participate in the international community.

“Taiwan is not alone. We have more and more like-minded friends around the world who are willing to walk with us,” she said. “And we will continue, with confidence, pragmatism, and firm steps, to show the world Taiwan’s resolve, goodwill, and the power of our democracy.”

China refuses to speak to President Lai Ching-te and his administration, saying he is a “separatist”.

China’s mission to the European Union condemned Hsiao’s visit, saying it was a serious interference in China’s internal affairs, and severely undermined political mutual trust between China and the EU.

China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and has never renounced use of force to “reunify” with the island. Taiwan’s government says it has the right to engage with other countries and that China has no right to claim the island or to dictate Taipei’s actions.

Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is visiting Berlin to address a conference this week.

Writing on her Facebook page late Saturday before leaving, Tsai said Hsiao going to Brussels was of “extraordinary significance for Taiwan”. “As President Lai Ching-te has stated, Taiwan stands as a trusted partner in the international community. We will steadfastly stand with Europe and other like-minded partners.”-Agencies