# Taiwanese diplomatic visit to Italy

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/taiwanese-diplomatic-visit-to-italy
> Updated: 2026-09-14T00:27:49.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 2.

Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung conducted a confidential visit to Italy to participate in the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy. The trip was kept secret until Hsiao’s arrival to protect her from potential intimidation or backlash from Beijing.

During the forum, Hsiao addressed participants regarding the military and ‘grey-zone pressures’ facing Taiwan, stating that the nation remains committed to a democratic way of life. She drew parallels between the historical significance of Ventotene and Taiwan’s own transition from authoritarianism to democracy.

The visit drew varied international responses. While China lodged formal protests, European Parliament Vice President Pina Picierno expressed support, stating the European Parliament ‘stands firmly on the side of freedom and democracy’ and confirmed her intention to visit Taiwan. However, the European Commission withdrew from the forum following the announcement of Hsiao’s attendance, while maintaining its ‘One China’ policy. 

Following the 27-hour journey involving plane, car, and ferry travel, Hsiao has since returned to Taiwan.

## Claims

- Hsiao attended the 2nd Ventotene European Conference for Freedom and Democracy in Italy. (corroborated by 6 sources)
- Hsiao highlighted the increasing military and gray-zone pressures facing Taiwan. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- even if the situation is difficult, Taiwan will continue to bravely walk the path of walking with the world (corroborated by 4 sources)
- The trip was kept secret beforehand to ensure security and avoid interference. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- China lodged formal protests against the visit. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The European Commission withdrew from the forum following the announcement of Hsiao's attendance. (single source)
- Italy's Foreign Minister stated that Italy maintains a One China policy but supports the status quo. (single source)
- European Parliament Vice President Pina Picierno confirmed she will visit Taiwan. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-14: Hsiao Bi-khim returns from Ventotene democracy forum in Italy

Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim returned from a secret visit to Italy's Ventotene island, where she spoke on democracy and regional security despite protests from China.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hsiao-bi-khim-returns-from-diplomatic-visit-to-ventotene-italy

### 2026-09-11: Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim visits Italy for democracy forum

Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is making a rare, previously secret visit to Italy to attend the Ventotene Conference for Freedom and Democracy, drawing criticism from Beijing.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/taiwan-vice-president-hsiao-bi-khim-visits-italy-for-democracy-forum

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Cite as: Taiwanese diplomatic visit to Italy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/taiwanese-diplomatic-visit-to-italy