This is a very welcome move by parliament
Taiwan spokesman
Parliament has adopted a resolution "strongly supporting" Taiwan's participation in international organisations.
The resolution, adopted by a unanimous number of MEPs, also "welcomes efforts by both Taipei and Beijing to improve cross-strait relations".
It says this will "help reinforce stability and security" in East Asia.
A parliamentary resolution is significant in that it can go on to become a formal policy of the EU.
At present, the EU still maintains its support for a so-called "one China" policy, meaning that it does not recognise the independence of Taiwan.
The adoption of the resolution was welcomed by members of parliament's Taiwan friendship group, such as ALDE deputy Graham Watson.
It comes amid rising tensions in the Asian region, between north and south Korea following the sinking by north Korea of a south Korean warship, with the loss of 46 lives.
Many see Taiwan and China as another potential flashpoint in the region, with Beijing controversially continuing to claim sovereignty over Taiwan.
Taiwan, for its part, insists that China removes the near 1500 missiles currently targeting the island from the Chinese mainland. It also wants the EU to drop its support for a "one-China" policy.
The parliamentary resolution, adopted last week, "encourages both sides (Taiwan and China) to further enhance dialogue, practical cooperation and confidence-building".
It also "comments" the council's recent declaration which "reiterates its support for Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organisation".
It also supports Taiwan's participation as an observer in "relevant international organisations" such as the ICAO and UNFCCC, both specialised agencies of the United Nations.
A spokesperson for the Taipei representative office to the EU said, "This is a very welcome move by parliament."
Meanwhile, the European commission is set to announce a proposal for the waiver of visa requirements for Taiwanese people travelling to Europe.
A proposal to grant Taiwan citizens visa-free privileges for the 25 EU countries in the Schengen agreement is expected within days, according to a commission source.
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