France–Taiwan relations

French and Chinese forces engaged in battles around Taiwan in the late 19th century. In the early 20th century, the French Third Republic established diplomatic relations with the Republic of China (ROC). In 1964 France became the first European country to switch recognition to the People's Republic instead but continued to sell major weapon platforms to the ROC following its retreat to Taiwan. This was stepped back in 1994 when France upgraded its relations with the PRC. Relations have improved significantly since then. Military relations have been impacted by scandals like the Taiwan frigate scandal and Taiwan Mirage affair.