TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Representative to France, Hao Pei-chih (郝培芝), met with Reporters Sans Frontières (RSF) leaders Wednesday (Nov. 19) in Paris. RSF President Pierre Haski and Director General Thibaut Bruttin hosted the meeting during the organization's 40th anniversary celebrations. Cédric Alviani, RSF's Asia-Pacific Bureau Director, highlighted Taiwan's 24th ranking in the World Press Freedom Index.
Alviani stated Taiwan serves as both a regional and global model for press freedom. He emphasized Taiwan's democracy and ongoing efforts to enhance its media environment despite imperfections. Taiwan's 24th World Press Freedom Index ranking surpasses France's position.
Hao praised RSF's 40-year dedication to defending truth and press freedom during the meeting. She noted these values are protected by Taiwan's constitution and central to the nation's identity. Haski stated Taiwan's history overcoming dictatorship and White Terror created deep appreciation for press freedom.
RSF established its first Asian office in Taiwan in 2017, reinforcing the island's press freedom significance. Bruttin stated choosing Taiwan for RSF's Asia office was strategic due to China's media suppression. He added Hong Kong's current freedom state no longer supports RSF's initiatives.