Tsai Ing-wen’s planned visit to the Czech Republic has reignited tensions between China and Taiwan, capturing global attention. China refuses to accept Taiwan’s call for independence. Her visit to the EU aligns with Taiwan’s desire to strengthen its ties with other countries. France and Belgium may see visits in the future.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise
Former Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to Europe, starting with the Czech Republic, has become a diplomatic flashpoint. China is not happy with any movement to aid Taiwan’s desire for independence. Beijing insists on recognition of its sovereignty over Taiwan, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the need for countries with diplomatic relations to respect China’s territorial integrity.
China views Tsai’s actions as provocative, fearing it may encourage support for Taiwan’s independence movement in Europe. Speculations have surfaced about Tsai potentially visiting other European countries, such as France and Belgium. This speculation occurs despite Vatican City being Taiwan’s only formal diplomatic ally in Europe. Taiwan is seeking to open further diplomatic channels with other EU countries.
I just had a very good exchange with Dr Roy Lee from the Taipei Representative Office in the EU and Belgium on EU-Taiwan ties after the European election. There will be continuity in our position. We will continue to stand with our democratic partner. pic.twitter.com/5OCVo1UfFI
— Engin Eroglu (@EnginEroglu_FW) October 8, 2024
Supporting Democratic Diplomacy
William Lai, Tsai’s successor as Taiwan’s president, has been working to enhance Taiwan’s place in international institutions. The approach aims to advance peace and fairness, ingrained in Taiwan’s pragmatic diplomacy, underscored by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung. Lin acknowledged Europe’s role as integral to Taiwan’s democratic ideals and its diplomatic strategy.
Lin stated, “Former President Tsai will travel to share our experiences and promote pragmatic diplomacy being advocated by President Lai that seeks peace and fairness and Europe is a very important part of that democratic ideal.”
The Czech Republic, Tsai’s primary destination, does not maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan. In spite of Chinese saber rattling, the Czechs are open to further dialogue towards a united front with Taiwan. Yet, its recent movements depict a closeness to Taipei amid military threats from Beijing. This visit becomes significant as it marks increasing solidarity and burgeoning cooperation between Taiwan and European allies, highlighting the Czech Republic’s strategic role in the ongoing geopolitical contest.
Former Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen heads to Europe this weekhttps://t.co/5ctn8OMSmP
— Voice of America (@VOANews) October 8, 2024
The Bigger Picture
The visit blends with global geopolitical strategies, emphasizing Taiwan’s outreach in Europe and beyond. When U.S. diplomats visited the island nation a couple of years ago, China presented the world with a military fairly close to Taiwan. These actions reflect China’s sensitivity to Tsai’s diplomatic engagements. Nonetheless, Tsai remains an influential figure within Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, fortifying Taiwan’s diplomatic pursuits. Her visit occurs within a historical context of pressure, underscoring the diplomatic tightrope Taiwan walks as it seeks to navigate relations with global powers.
The unfolding situation underscores the delicate balance in cross-strait relations and Taiwan’s commitment to engaging internationally amidst opposition. If Taiwan continues to make these types of diplomatic visits, the global reaction will be of interest to many.
