On September 26, the Canadian National Security Affairs Delegation visited the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC), where Minister Kuan Bi-ling received them in person. This marks the first visit to Taiwan by former Canadian Chief of the General Staff, Thomas J. Lawson, who led senior members of the delegation, demonstrating Canada’s strong commitment to deepening security and maritime cooperation with Taiwan. Both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, regional security dynamics, and visions for cooperation, while reaffirming their shared commitment to safeguarding regional prosperity.

   Minister Kuan emphasized that, given the rapidly changing international situation, maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region is a critical issue. In recent years, Canada has stood alongside democratic partners, stressing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. In September this year (2025), Canada’s naval frigate HMCS Ville de Québec and Australia’s missile destroyer HMAS Brisbane jointly transited the Taiwan Strait. Through concrete actions, they supported freedom of navigation and upheld international principles, demonstrating their position that the Taiwan Strait is international waters. This fully reflected Canada’s firm stance in safeguarding freedom, peace, and openness in the Strait, while also allowing Taiwanese people to feel the support of the international community.

   Minister Kuan pointed out that China has not renounced the use of force to threaten Taiwan and continues to conduct large and small-scale intrusions in Taiwan’s surrounding waters and offshore islands, attempting to change the status quo of the Taiwan Strait and exhaust Taiwan’s defense capacity. She stressed that the international community must strengthen cooperation and deliver a clear and powerful message externally, collectively forming a deterrent to respond to “gray-zone” harassment. At the same time, Taiwan has increased its defense budget, demonstrating firm resolve and actively responding to the current challenges.

   Minister Kuan emphasized that due to China’s obstruction, Taiwan faces significant challenges in becoming a member of international organizations. While the government has sought to strengthen national security through closer cooperation with international allies, these efforts remain insufficient. In light of the limitations of the existing models, Taiwan urgently needs the assistance of international partners to put forward innovative approaches and concrete initiatives that will enable Taiwan to achieve truly meaningful participation in international organizations.

   Minister Kuan underscored that Taiwan and Canada share the values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Canada has long been a staunch advocate for Taiwan, and this high-level delegation visit underscores both sides’ determination to deepen regional security and maritime cooperation. Taiwan and Canada will continue to pursue closer cooperation, join hands in confronting threats, and work together to safeguard peace in the Indo-Pacific, thereby contributing as key forces for global prosperity and security.