Mission to Taipei. Last Wednesday, the largest Italian parliamentary delegation in years returned from Taipei. Led by Senator Adriano Paroli (Forza Italia), it included lawmakers from Forza Italia, Fratelli d’Italia, and the Democratic Party.
- “It was a valuable opportunity to get to know a country we had never truly discovered,” Nevi told Decode39.
- He described Taiwan as an “advanced” nation that left a “particularly positive impression.”
Why it matters. The mission was bipartisan, signaling unity across government and opposition in support of stronger cooperation with Taiwan.
Key meetings:
- Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim
- Deputy Finance Minister, who outlined Taiwan’s 5% VAT system and incentives for foreign investors
- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, who urged Italy to deepen cooperation on freedom of navigation
- Institute for National Defense and Security Research, one of top think tanks in Taipei
- A range of institutional and business actors.
Economic & strategic angles. Nevi highlighted several takeaways from the mission:
- Italian interest in Taiwan’s tax model and investment opportunities
- Focus on agritech and semiconductors, underscored by a visit to Semicon Taiwan 2025
- Recognition of Taiwan as a critical player in global supply chains, despite Beijing’s efforts to isolate it diplomatically
Zoom in: sky’s the limit. On January 16, Eva Air will launch a direct Malpensa–Taipei route using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner — the first ever direct air link between Italy and Taiwan, enhancing not just connectivity but also political signaling.
The bigger picture. For Taipei, parliamentary diplomacy — like aviation connectivity — is a vital tool to consolidate identity and gain recognition.
- Recent visits by U.S. senators underline the geopolitical weight of such exchanges.
- “We are well aware of China’s intentions. We hope for peaceful coexistence and no escalation,” Nevi stressed.
Zoom out: Taipei’s calling. Over the past two weeks, our sister site has published two op-eds from Taiwan’s cabinet:
- Transport Minister Chen Shi-Kai, calling for Taiwan’s full inclusion in ICAO to safeguard global aviation safety and sustainability.
- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, urging the world to “chip in” and give Taiwan its rightful place on the international stage while welcoming the contributions it can offer.
Bottom line. Italy’s visit to Taipei marks a step forward in mutual understanding and cooperation, set against the backdrop of intensifying tensions with China.
