French Members of Parliament Visit Penghu County Government to Strengthen Taiwan–France Friendship and Cooperation
Penghu County Government
2026-06-11
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Three members of the French National Assembly visited the Penghu County Government on the afternoon of June 11, including Estelle Youssouffa, Secretary of the Foreign Affairs Committee and member of the Taiwan Friendship Group; Thomas Gassilloud, Vice Chair of the Defense Industry Study Group and former Chair of the Committee on National Defense and Armed Forces; and Hanane Mansouri, member of the Committee on Constitutional Laws, Legislation and General Administration of the Republic and Executive Secretary of the Union of the Right for the Republic. The delegation was welcomed by Deputy Magistrate Lin Chieh-hsing. During the visit, both sides exchanged views on Penghu's geography, population, industrial development, tourism initiatives, and opportunities for Taiwan–France cooperation.
Using an illustrated presentation, Lin introduced Penghu's unique natural landscapes and cultural heritage. He also highlighted this year's Penghu International Fireworks Festival collaboration with the popular Dragon Ball Z franchise and presented commemorative Dragon Ball Z fans to the French delegation, showcasing Penghu's tourism appeal and creative vitality.
Lin shared that he had previously visited the renowned Mont Saint-Michel in France and was deeply impressed by its island scenery shaped by the changing tides, as well as its iconic abbey. He also noted that Penghu is a member of the World's Most Beautiful Bays Association, an organization founded in France, reflecting the strong foundation for Taiwan–France cooperation in marine conservation, the promotion of beautiful bays, and sustainable development.
On behalf of the Penghu County Government, Lin expressed his sincere appreciation for the French Parliament's longstanding and tangible support for Taiwan. He noted that Taiwan and France share the core values of democracy and freedom, adding that it was an honor to welcome distinguished French guests to Penghu and expressing hope for continued exchanges and cooperation.
Youssouffa said this was her second visit to Taiwan and her first trip to Penghu. As Taiwan is home to numerous islands, she hopes to visit each one in person to gain a deeper understanding of the distinctive character and culture of different regions. After visiting Taiwan proper last year and Penghu this year, she also hopes to explore Taiwan's other offshore islands in the future. She praised Penghu's beautiful scenery, abundant ocean views, and peaceful atmosphere, saying the visit left a lasting impression.
Gassilloud was also making his second visit to Taiwan, while Mansouri was visiting Taiwan for the first time. All three lawmakers expressed admiration for Penghu's distinctive island landscapes and cultural heritage.
