EQUAL TREATMENT is the goal
Taiwan, like other countries in the region, needs a safe and peaceful environment to develop economic prosperity -- but she needn't interfere in the relations that her southern neighbors have with China. In pursuit of collective security in East Asia, it is not necessary for Taiwan to use Southeast Asia to balance China.
On the other hand, we do hope that the Southeast Asian countries can deal with Taiwan and China equally. As independent states, these countries could accept Taiwan in the context of the larger international community -- and by restoring political relations with Taiwan, they might open a new prospect for this region.
Furthermore, I would like to point out that further expansionist actions, large scale military exercises and any stimulating behaviors which could produce tensions in the Spratlys should be avoided. A peaceful solution should be our principle to settle the disputes. One available mechanism would be to organize a private company for the joint development of resources. As for the proposed South China Sea regional code of conduct, whenever it may be concluded, it would not be accepted if Taiwan is not to be invited.
As an indispensable member of the West Pacific community, Taiwan does not expect to unite with the Southeast Asian countries in a strategic partnership, but hopes to find a natural dialogue partner in pursuit of a common interests.
We are looking forward the coming of the trade liberalization areas of APEC (by 2010) and AFTA (2002). At that time, economic dynamism should accelerate the opportunity for prosperity throughout this region. In conjunction with these increasing economic relations, cooperative relations between Taiwan and Southeast Asia should be more closely consolidated in coming decades.
Chen Hurng-yu (
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