Representative Chung-kwang Tien delivered a guest lecture at the Vrijzinnig Christelijk Lyceum (VCL) in The Hague (December 17, 2025, The Hague)

Last Wednesday, Representative Chung-kwang Tien was pleased to speak at the Vrijzinnig Christelijk Lyceum (VCL) in The Hague, introducing students to Taiwan’s national profile, Taiwan–Netherlands relations, cross-strait issues, and the work of our Representative Office.

Opening with humor, Ambassador Tien noted that while Taiwan and the Netherlands are 9,400 kilometers apart—a 12-hour direct flight—the journey could also be made by bicycle in about 470 hours, prompting laughter from the students . He highlighted the over four centuries of historical ties between the two sides and their shared values of democracy and freedom, as well as strong cooperation in technology and the economy.

Ambassador Tien also explained the historical context of cross-strait relations, emphasizing that People’s Republic of China has NEVER ruled Taiwan, and outlined Taiwan’s important role in the global semiconductor supply chain, regional security, and the community of democracies. He thanked the Netherlands for its continued support for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, during which students asked insightful questions on international affairs. Ambassador Tien encouraged independent thinking and warmly invited students to visit Taiwan to experience its democratic vitality and cultural diversity.