On January 14, 2025, it was reported that the Secretary-General of the National Security Council of the Republic of China (Taiwan), David Lee, had a luncheon meeting with Tom Tugendhat, the former Deputy Minister of Interior of the United Kingdom. During the meeting, David Lee expressed Taiwan’s firm stance in standing together with global democratic partners, including the UK, to resist authoritarian expansion. Tugendhat praised Taiwan’s flourishing democracy and impressive developments in economy, trade, and technology.
The luncheon between Secretary-General David Lee and Tom Tugendhat, MP, delved into discussions about regional security situations, strengthening Taiwan-UK relations, and combating the spread of authoritarianism. David Lee appreciated Tugendhat’s steadfast support for Taiwan and his ongoing efforts in the UK Parliament to defend universal values such as freedom, democracy, and human rights. Faced with increased military cooperation between countries like China and Russia, which engage in authoritarian expansion through methods like gray zone operations, information warfare, and legal battles, posing a threat to the global democratic camp, Taiwan is committed to enhancing its resilience for regional peace and stability. Taiwan will also stand firm with the United Kingdom and other global democratic partners to jointly resist authoritarian expansion.
Tugendhat remarked that “Taiwan’s thriving democracy and remarkable economic, trade, and technological advancements are impressive, showcasing to the world that Chinese culture can pursue a different, better path than one-party rule.” He emphasized the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the interconnectedness of global crises and the necessity for all nations to address threats posed by authoritarian states weaponizing economics and overcapacity to coerce other countries. Tugendhat underscored the importance of building a “democratic supply chain” among global democratic nations, with Taiwan playing a pivotal role in this effort.
Having served as the Deputy Minister of Interior and Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the UK House of Commons, Tugendhat has long been engaged in issues related to authoritarian expansion and human rights. This visit marked his first trip to Taiwan, with the delegation including his senior aide, Lottie Dane.