UK Focuses on Tech and Security with Taiwan
taipei, Dec. 10 (CNA) Ruth Bradley-Jones, the United Kingdom’s representative to taiwan, recently reviewed her first nine months in the role. She expressed optimism about the progress made and outlined two main goals: increasing technology collaboration and addressing common security issues.
In an interview with CNA, Bradley-Jones, who began her position at the British Office Taipei (BOT) in February, stated her aim is to create a strong and active relationship with Taiwan.
This goal has been advanced through three agreements signed by the BOT this year: the Taiwan-UK ETP Digital trade Arrangement,the Taiwan-UK ETP Energy and Net Zero Arrangement,and the taiwan-UK ETP Investment Arrangement.
ETP stands for the Enhanced Trade Partnership, an agreement signed by both countries in 2023 to improve cooperation in investment, digital trade, and energy and net-zero projects.
“Our economic and tech partnership continues to grow, which is very encouraging,” she said during the interview on Tuesday.
Bradley-Jones emphasized that strengthening cooperation in the tech sector remains a key priority.
“Taiwan is well-known for its tech strengths. Manny people don’t realize the U.K. has the third-largest tech industry in the world, and I want to ensure the U.K.and Taiwan become leading tech partners,” she said.
Over the past nine months, Bradley-Jones has focused on creating research and development exchanges between universities in the U.K.and Taiwan,connecting U.K. innovation with Taiwan’s tech manufacturing.
Shared Security Challenges
Another crucial area of focus is addressing shared security concerns, including working together to improve cybersecurity, develop AI standards, and protect global supply chains, she said.
Bradley-Jones added that both sides are concerned about strengthening social resilience to protect democratic values and human rights and should collaborate closely on this.
She noted that President Lai Ching-te has been prioritizing discussions about Taiwan’s resilience and security across all levels of society.
“I believe Taiwan is