EU delegation meets Taiwan president on first official trip

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — The head of a European Parliament delegation on its first official visit to Taiwan says it’s “high time” for the European Union to step up cooperation with the self-ruled island, which is also claimed by China. Seven lawmakers from the Parliament’s committee on foreign interference in democratic processes met Thursday with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. The visit comes amid growing support in Western countries for the democratic island, which China claims as part of its territory to be annexed by force if necessary, and rising negative perceptions toward Beijing. Tsai called the visit “highly significant” and says Taiwan wants to build a “democratic alliance” against disinformation.