Taipei: President Lai Ching-te on Wednesday presented outgoing French Office in Taipei Director Franck Paris with the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon, honoring his efforts to strengthen Taiwan-France cooperation in politics, culture, science, and other fields. Paris, who took office in August 2023, is set to leave Taiwan on Thursday after completing his tenure. Lai praised him for helping elevate bilateral ties and deepening exchanges between the two sides.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai said Paris' efforts during his tenure contributed to major milestones in relations between the two sides, including closer political exchanges, scientific collaboration, and youth programs that helped more than 100 Taiwanese young people pursue opportunities in France. Lai also highlighted Paris' continued support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, saying Taiwan hopes to continue working with France in areas including technology, industry, and strategic cooperation.
Paris thanked Lai for the honor and shared the recognition with his team at the French Office in Taipei and Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He said working with Taiwan has been a rewarding experience and that France will remain Taiwan's partner. Paris stated that Taiwan and France are not competitors but partners with complementary strengths, with cooperation possible in fields including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space, and quantum technology.
Paris, who will return to France to lead the Paris Peace Forum, said he will continue to promote Taiwan-France ties in his new role, adding that "Taiwan has gained a friend in Paris."