Two birds, one stone
There is a lot of debate regarding fighting to maintain relations with Taiwan’s 22 diplomatic allies. Some have said the relationships are not useful and that Taiwan should concentrate on strengthening ties with “important” nations like the US and Japan. Even though losing all of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies would not affect the economy or military security, something would be lost.
Diplomatic relations are a symbol of sovereignty and independence, and links with allies contribute to relations with so-called “important counties,” provide the nation with channels to international organizations, and increase potentially mutually beneficial political, economic and social relations. Taiwan, as a responsible member of the international community, has a duty to contribute to international welfare and by using its resources to preferentially help its diplomatic allies, Taiwan can kill two birds with one stone.
Showing that Taiwan cares for its diplomatic allies by acts of goodwill should not be a burden on the economy. There must be some mutually beneficial projects that could be undertaken without cost, we just need to devote more effort to exploring our options.
Painting the relations of Taiwan with its diplomatic allies as a “selling of ties” is counterproductive and untrue. Interests play an important role in relations, personal and international, but they are not always just about “giving money.” Diplomatic relations should be first about appreciation, and second about being proactive and using each other for maximum mutual benefits.
Taiwan, in comparison with China, is not a big or important nation. If it “despises” ties with “small” nations, it is shooting itself in the foot. How can Taiwan then ask from other nations what it is not prepared to do itself? Taiwan cannot allow itself to lose the moral high ground.
Right now Taiwan needs to adopt a more proactive foreign policy, less reactive to Beijing’s moves, and launch a campaign to convince nations of the advantages of maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
Taiwan needs to concentrate on its diplomatic ties; look at the nation and not treat them as a tool in a diplomatic tug-of-war with China. By assisting allies using “software” (transferring know-how, education, experiences, technology, etc.) over “hardware” (money and goods), Taiwan could have a positive effect helping its allies, and by helping allies explore new avenues, Taiwan could make its relationships more meaningful.
Let us explore and use these relations and make them more relevant to Taiwan and its diplomatic allies.
Francisco Luis Perez
Taipei
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