In this episode of Perspectives with Neilo, we dive deep into the heart of international diplomacy and the challenges faced by democracies on the frontlines. Senator Gerry Horkan (Ireland) shares his firsthand experience and insights from his July 2024 visit to Taiwan, a democratic beacon in the Asia-Pacific region. Horkan reflects on the warm reception he received in Taiwan, as well as the reported backlash from China's Wolf Warrior diplomacy.
The Chinese Ambassador to Ireland's harsh criticisms of Horkan and his colleagues' visit highlight the geopolitical tensions surrounding Taiwan's sovereignty and its ongoing struggle for global recognition. As an advocate for pro-democracy values, Horkan discusses the importance of supporting Taiwan, a nation under constant threat of aggression from China.
This episode shares some valuable insights for anyone interested in global democracy, foreign policy and the delicate balance of international relations in a world increasingly under threat by authoritarian regimes. Whether you're following the situation in Taiwan, Ukraine or other frontline democracies, this interview provides a glimpse into the global struggle for democratic ideals in an era of Wolf Warrior diplomacy.
Date of Recording: January 26th, 2025.
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| Irish Senate delegation visiting Taiwan in July, 2024 (L-R) Diarmuid Wilson (FF), Garret Ahern (FG), Sharon Keogan (Ind), Gerry Horkan (FF) and Gerard Craughwell (Ind) |
DIVE DEEPER:
Additional Information on the topics discussed in this episode:
- Chinese ambassador complains to Oireachtas about Taiwan visit by five Senators - Marie O'Halloran, The Irish Times (July 17th, 2024)
- McDowell says Ceann Comhairle warned TDs against offending China by engaging with Taiwan - Pat Leahy, The Irish Times (Dec 1st, 2021)
- New poll shows deep distrust of Chinese government among Irish public - Kevin Cunningham and Adam Daly, The Journal (May 22nd, 2021)
- Understanding Chinese "Wolf Warrior Diplomacy" - National Bureau of Asian Research (October 22nd, 2021)
- China Is Locked Into Xi Jinping's Aggressive Diplomacy - Kathy Huang, Foreign Policy (December 2nd, 2022)
- The Rise and Fall of China's Wolf Warrior Diplomacy - Duan Xiaolin and Liu Yitong, The Diplomat (September 22nd, 2023)
- Seanad election finishes with 20 women among 49 winners - Marie O'Halloran, The Irish Times (February 4th, 2025)
- Houses of the Oireachtas - Seanad elections
- Seanad elections 2025: Michael McDowell still top dog as losers hope for reprieve from Taoiseach Micheal Martin - Senan Molony, Irish Independent (February 3rd, 2025)
You might also like:
- EU in Taiwan - report from the 2023 Europe Festival in Taipei including interviews with representatives of various EU trade offices.
- Wolf Warrior Peace Brokering - Interview with Jojje Olsson, kinamedia.se
