Ventotene

EU Commission Withdraws From Ventotene Democracy Summit Over Taiwan Official's Presence

The European Commission pulled out of a democracy conference in Italy after Taiwan's vice premier was invited as a surprise guest, citing diplomatic sensitivities with Beijing. The event, co-organized by the European Parliament, focused on autocracy and featured dissidents from Ukraine, Russia, and Venezuela. Commission officials removed their branding and cancelled scheduled speeches, while Parliament leaders accused Brussels of yielding to Chinese pressure. The Commission maintained its 'One China' policy stance but denied hosting the event, highlighting ongoing tensions in EU-China relations amid trade disputes and geopolitical conflicts.