Maybe one way for you is to start formal negotiations with China. Because both Taiwan and China will become members of the WTO, as members you can start to talk to each other and you can try to do something consistent with the aims of the WTO.
TT: Some critics are worried about a likely political blockade China might attempt against Taiwan in the WTO to satisfy a political agenda. What's your view on this?
Chen: I don't think so. Once Taiwan is accepted as a member, China has to treat Taiwan as a member. I don't think that'll make life more difficult for Taiwan. On the contrary, then Taiwan can talk to China on the basis of being fellow members of the WTO, and something could be achieved. That's one way out.
TT: Despite your argument that it's inevitable that Taiwan and China integrate in economic terms, some fear that such a development would cause Taiwan to lose political bargaining chips once both sides begin to talk about the future in political terms. What's your view about this?
Chen: I've heard a lot about it, because it's like a hostage situation: "If you are too dependent on the mainland, the mainland will hold you hostage."
I've heard many arguments about this and I suppose we have to be realistic. If Taiwan is going to make a contribution as well to industrial development, and if you can really come up with a complementary division of labor, it's also of economic benefit [to China], and it's also in the interest of China to maintain a cordial relationship with Taiwan.
I am quite easy with the political situation now. I don't think China would take any drastic action toward Taiwan.
Like it or not, if China wants to make life difficult for Taiwanese, they can do it whether you are economic hostages or not. My advice is that Taiwan's people should be relaxed, should be realistic and should put political considerations aside.
You know the bottom line anyway. They [China] can't accept any independence of Taiwan. That's the bottom line. As long as Taiwan does not openly go the route of independence, China will want to maintain the status quo. Because China has a lot to worry about as well; not to disturb regional security, as the geopolitics are very tricky.
Don't think that Taiwan is very small, it is an indicator for Southeast Asia as well. China will not want to be too aggressive toward Taiwan because China doesn't want to upset regional security. But there is a bottom line: You have to watch out.
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