The Future of U.S.-Taiwan Relations

Taiwan's free and fair elections, vibrant free market economy and open society set an example for the region and for the world. President-elect Tsai Ing-wen will be Taiwan's first female President. This third peaceful transfer of executive power is an indication of the maturation of Taiwan's democracy. The recent election presents the United States with more opportunities to improve our political security and economic relationship with Taiwan. The cross-Strait relationship with China has been relatively stable under the sitting Kuomintang President Ma Ying-jeou, but a steady stream of threats toward Taiwan's national security are an everyday reality for Taiwan and its people. President Ma took strides to build closer relationships with China, especially in trade. To his credit, President Ma negotiated the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement, ECFA, with China in 2010 and this paved the way for Taiwan's expanded trade ties under similar economic cooperation agreements with New Zealand and Singapore. Nevertheless, Taiwan has untapped economic potential due to political constraints, and its heavy reliance on trade. The United States must prioritize Taiwan's active and meaningful participation on the global stage, ensure its self-defense capabilities are sufficient and ensure that its economy continues to grow and compete with other major powers in the region.