Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan, is on the edge of its seat as the world awaits the results of the U.S. election. As the global superpower prepares for a new administration, many officials in Taiwan are concerned about the potential impact of the former president’s isolationist views. While Taiwan has not been a major topic on the presidential campaign trail, there is a growing sense of unease about how a new administration may approach foreign policy, particularly in regards to Taiwan.
Taiwan, a small island nation with a population of 23 million, has long been a key player in the Asia-Pacific region. Despite facing diplomatic challenges from China, Taiwan has managed to maintain its status as a thriving democracy and a strong economic force. However, with the recent rise of tensions between the U.S. and China, Taiwan has found itself caught in the middle of a power struggle between the two superpowers.
During his presidency, Donald Trump took a tough stance on China, imposing tariffs and engaging in a trade war that had far-reaching consequences. This approach, coupled with his “America First” policy, raised concerns among Taiwanese officials about the potential impact on Taiwan’s relationship with the U.S. With Joe Biden now the president-elect, many are wondering what this means for Taiwan’s future.
On the campaign trail, Taiwan was not a major topic of discussion. However, foreign policy has been a key issue for both candidates, and their approaches have been vastly different. While Trump’s isolationist views often put America’s allies on edge, Biden’s more cooperative approach has been met with a sigh of relief by many in Taiwan. His experience as a former vice president and his track record of supporting Taiwan’s democracy have given Taiwanese officials hope for a more stable and predictable relationship with the U.S.
But beyond the political implications, a Biden presidency could also have significant economic benefits for Taiwan. As the U.S. looks to rebuild its economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is likely to seek out new trade partnerships. Taiwan, with its strong tech industry and skilled workforce, is well-positioned to benefit from this potential shift in U.S. policy.
Furthermore, a Biden administration is likely to prioritize strengthening alliances and building multilateral partnerships. This could be a major advantage for Taiwan, as it seeks to expand its diplomatic reach and gain recognition on the global stage. With China’s increasing aggression towards Taiwan, having a strong ally like the U.S. could prove crucial in ensuring Taiwan’s security and sovereignty.
However, despite the optimism surrounding a Biden presidency, there are still challenges that lie ahead for Taiwan. The U.S. has a complex relationship with China, and it is unlikely that tensions between the two superpowers will disappear overnight. Taiwan must also continue to navigate its delicate relationship with China, which has been increasingly hostile towards the island nation in recent years.
As we await the final results of the U.S. election, one thing is certain – Taiwan has a crucial role to play in the future of the Asia-Pacific region. Its strategic location and strong economy make it a valuable ally for any country, and its commitment to democracy and human rights serves as an example for others to follow. As we move forward into a new era of U.S. leadership, Taiwan stands ready to work hand in hand with its allies to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
In the words of President Tsai Ing-wen, “We are determined to protect Taiwan’s democracy and freedom, safeguard the welfare of our people, and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We will continue to work with our allies and friends around the world to build a better future for our nation and for the world.” With this determination and resilience, Taiwan is ready to face whatever the future may bring, and emerge stronger than ever before.
