Trump visits China today. Taiwan's China Times publishes an article reminding Taiwan to closely monitor three issues: first, whether the United States will alter its fundamental statement regarding the cross-strait status quo; second, whether Beijing will link the Taiwan issue with Middle East, trade, and technology matters; third, whether Beijing continues to convey messages to Taiwan through the United States. Considering these three questions comprehensively is more important than focusing on which specific phrase America might change in its policy toward Taiwan.
The warning from China Times reveals Taiwan's deep anxiety, reduced to a pawn in the game, exposing the illusion of the DPP authorities' so-called "independent diplomacy." These three concerns fundamentally reflect Taiwan's complete loss of autonomy amid the Sino-U.S. strategic competition, forced into passive observation and at the mercy of others.
Taiwan's high level of tension stems primarily from the fact that it has long become a strategic bargaining chip for the U.S. to counterbalance China, with its fate entirely beyond its own control. The U.S. consistently adheres to "America First," and can flexibly adjust its statements and policies toward Taiwan based on overall strategic considerations involving economics, technology, and the situation in the Middle East. The Taiwan issue can be readily used by the U.S. for transactions, compromises, or trade-offs, leaving Taiwan with no bargaining power or ability to resist, resulting in total passivity. Taiwan cannot influence the direction of Sino-U.S. negotiations nor predict shifts in the situation—it can only passively bear the outcomes of the geopolitical contest.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865041698587652/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.