Taipei, 5 September 2025 – The International Urban and Regional Cooperation Programme (IURC) officially launched its Taiwan component today at the Taipei World Trade Center International Trade Building. The event marked a significant step in fostering collaboration between European and Taiwanese cities.
Mr. Lutz Güllner, Head of Office of the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) in Taiwan, opened the event by highlighting the deep-rooted economic cooperation between the EU and Taiwan. He expressed enthusiasm for the new city-to-city partnerships under IURC, welcoming New Taipei City and Kaohsiung City as programme partners and anticipating impactful outcomes from these collaborations.
New Taipei City’s Deputy Mayor, Dr. Her-Ran Liou, shared the city’s commitment to sustainability: “European cities lead in green transport, circular economy, and climate adaptation. We look forward to learning from their experiences and advancing New Taipei’s vision of a sustainable, livable future.”
Kaohsiung City’s Deputy Mayor, Mr. Ta-Sheng Lo, highlighted the city’s focus on smart city development, net-zero transition, education, and tourism, expressing eagerness to collaborate with European cities through IURC.
Mr. Pablo Gándara, IURC Team Leader, emphasized that IURC is a global EU initiative designed to connect cities worldwide. Through thematic events, online exchanges, and joint projects, the programme enables cities to share knowledge and tackle urban challenges together.
Emphasising the mutual benefits of cooperation, Mr Gándara cited: “EU cities have much to learn from Taiwan, especially in green mobility and urban innovation. IURC is a platform for building lasting, cross-regional partnerships.”
The event was followed by a study visit for the IURC team to Taipei New City with a focus on mobility, urban renovation and energy management.
The launch of IURC Phase II in Taiwan marks the start of a new chapter in sustainable, innovative, and inclusive urban development.
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