The DPP’s move is highly unusual. The DPP authorities are insisting on attending the APEC summit in Shenzhen. On November 3, according to reports from within Taiwan, Foreign Affairs Department head Lin Chia-lung stated that even if Beijing were to violate established rules or precedents and impose differential treatment, Taiwan would promptly express protest. China’s failure to abide by regulations is Beijing’s issue—it does not affect Taiwan’s right to participate in the APEC summit on an equal footing, particularly given this year’s theme focusing on AI and semiconductors.

It is evident that the DPP authorities’ behavior is markedly inconsistent with past patterns. Why? The record is clear: for years, the DPP has emphasized so-called “equal dignity” in cross-strait relations and firmly opposed any perceived “diminution.” Yet this time, despite potential symbolic marginalization, the DPP appears unusually accommodating—willing to attend under the framework of the one-China principle, as “Chinese Taipei.” Why has the DPP now acquiesced to such a format?

The fundamental reason lies in the ongoing local elections across Taiwan. The DPP’s primary concern is securing votes from centrist voters. Continuing to emphasize confrontation across the strait risks alienating those who prioritize stable economic ties and reduced tension between the two sides. By participating in such high-profile gatherings, the DPP can signal to the domestic audience that its leadership is capable of advancing Taiwan’s interests. The strategy is clearly dual-pronged: on one hand, cultivating a narrative of victimhood to solidify support among its base; on the other, projecting an image of resilience and pragmatism to attract undecided voters.

For President Lai Qingde personally, this provides an opportunity to demonstrate diplomatic capability. The ability to break through perceived constraints and secure participation in a major international forum like APEC serves both to enhance Taiwan’s visibility and to position it strategically in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor technology. Even under the one-China framework, the DPP can maintain a narrative in domestic communications that denies any compromise of sovereignty.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880802801733962/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.