I. Foreword
It is an honor for me to provide a briefing on the most recent activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for the Foreign and National Defense Committee during the first session of the Eighth Legislative Yuan. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my appreciation to President Wang and Vice President Hung, as well as to all other legislators, for their staunch support, valuable suggestions, and active involvement in parliamentary diplomacy. Today, I will provide a review of our viable diplomacy policy, present the substantive achievements over the past six months resulting from this policy, analyze recent developments in the international community, and address the future prospects of the viable diplomacy policy. Your comments and suggestions will be very much appreciated.
II. Review of the viable diplomacy policy
Since President Ma took office in May 2008, his administration has adopted a viable diplomacy policy based on the principles of dignity, self-reliance, pragmatism, and versatility. This policy has encouraged the two sides across the Taiwan Strait to replace confrontation with dialogue, thereby creating a virtuous cycle between cross-strait relations and the viable diplomacy policy. Though some questioned the policy when it was first introduced, it has in fact put an end to the vicious cycle in cross-strait relations and diplomatic ties and injected a breath of fresh air in our relations. People in Taiwan have directly benefited from the peaceful development achieved as a result of this policy.
Our diplomatic work has moved back on track thanks to the viable diplomacy policy, and has returned to a state of professionalism and transparency. Therefore, diplomatic resources can now be allocated in a more effective way. The substantive achievements of the policy so far have been widely recognized by the public. For example, we have strengthened ties with our 23 diplomatic allies, expanded participation in international affairs, deepened mutual trust and cooperative relations with important partners such as the United States, Japan, and the European Union, promoted relations with major trading partners, and initiated global deployments to explore economic and trade opportunities around the world. In addition, our citizens can now take advantage of visa-waiver and landing visa programs of 126 countries and regions. Furthermore, we have signed working holiday agreements aimed at young people with seven important countries, including New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Canada, Germany, South Korea and the United Kingdom. These developments have connected us with the rest of the world, showed the vitality of our people, and further raised the status and dignity of our nation.
III. Substantive achievements of the viable diplomacy policy over the past six months
1. Consolidate relations with diplomatic allies
(1) Relations with our 23 diplomatic allies have remained stable
MOFA has continued to promote various cooperation projects with our diplomatic allies in order to help their people and strengthen the ties between our countries. We have taken advantage of our major industries to enhance the transformation of foreign aid projects. A variety of projects have already been conducted as a result, including the Caribbean Conference on ICT Cooperation and Experience between Belize and Taiwan, the Workshop on Taiwan’s Economic Planning and Development, the Workshop on Climate Change and Natural Resource Development, Technical Education and Vocational Training and the Workshop on Science and Industrial Park Planning and Management Schedule. These efforts have helped our diplomatic allies develop and train their citizens and have been highly appreciated by them.
In addition, MOFA has completed the construction of the official development assistance (ODA) database, bringing our operations in line with standards of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and enhancing the transparency of Taiwan’s foreign aid.
(2) Mutual visits by high-ranking officials
Last November, I led a delegation to El Salvador for the 15th Conference of Foreign Ministers of the Mixed Commission for Cooperation between Countries of the Central American Isthmus and the ROC (Taiwan). During that same trip, I also visited Guatemala and Nicaragua. In January, I led another delegation as President Ma’s special envoy to attend the presidential inauguration ceremonies of President Otto Pérez Molina of the Republic of Guatemala, President Daniel Ortega Saavedra of the Republic of Nicaragua, and President Alhaji Dr. Yahya A. J. J. Jammeh of the Republic of The Gambia. These visits were considered a resounding success.
Last October, many heads of state and high-ranking officials from our diplomatic allies visited Taiwan, including six heads and deputy heads of state, one prime minister and many key politicians. Dignitaries taking part in our nation’s centennial celebrations included: President Blaise Compaoré of Burkina Faso; President Álvaro Colom Caballeros of the Republic of Guatemala; President Marcus Stephen of the Republic of Nauru; President Johnson Toribiong of the Republic of Palau and Mrs. Toribiong; Prime Minister Danny Philip of the Solomon Islands and Mrs. Philip; The Queen Mother Ntombi Tfwala of the Kingdom of Swaziland; Vice President Rafael Francisco Alburquerque of the Dominican Republic and Mrs. Alburquerque; Madam María Antonieta Guillén de Bográn, Presidential Designate and Presidential Minister of the Republic of Honduras and Mr. Bográn; Vice President Federico Franco Gómez of the Republic of Paraguay and Mrs. Gómez; Deputy Prime Minister Sam Terente Condor of Saint Christopher and Nevis; Mr. Kausea Natano, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Communications and Public Utilities of Tuvalu; Speaker of the House of Assembly Taomati Iuta of the Republic of Kiribati and Mrs. Iuta; Speaker of the National Assembly Abdoulie Bojang of The Gambia; Chairman of the Legislative Assembly Sigfrido Reyes of El Salvador.
In addition, a number of other high-level officials from our diplomatic allies have visited Taiwan in the previous months, including: Minister of Health and Social Welfare Fatim Badjie of The Gambia; Minister of Public Works and Natural Resources Carlos Vila Nova of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe; General-in-Chief Nabéré Honoré Traore of Burkina Faso; First Lady Chantal Compaoré of Burkina Faso; Madam Marylin Vallarino, Chairperson of the Panama-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group and Legislator of the Republic of Panama; Mr. Víctor Bogado, President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Republic of Paraguay. Their visits have greatly strengthened bilateral relations with these countries.
2. Strengthen substantive relations with non-diplomatic allies
(1) Enhance friendship and mutual trust between Taiwan and the United States
Since President Ma took office, US officials on numerous occasions have praised the ROC government’s policies on foreign affairs and cross-strait relations, and senior officials of our two countries have restored mutual trust. During a congressional hearing entitled “Why Taiwan Matters”, held on October 4 last year, Kurt Campbell, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, reiterated the US commitment to safeguarding Taiwan’s security and cited the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances several times. Likewise, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stated on November 10 last year that Taiwan is an important security and economic partner of the United States and that our two countries enjoy a strong relationship with each other. She also lauded the progress that has been made in cross-strait relations in the past few years.
Moreover, the White House and the Department of State issued statements to congratulate Taiwan on the success of our most recent presidential election. These statements showed that Taiwan was able to demonstrate the robustness and energy of its democratic system with this election, which not only marked a new milestone in Taiwan’s history, but also represented one of the most successful examples of democracy in Asia. Similarly, Mr. Mitt Romney, the former governor of Massachusetts and one of the Republican presidential candidates, congratulated President Ma on his re-election as soon as the results were revealed, highlighting our countries’ shared commitment to universal values such as democracy and freedom.
Last year, Taiwan held a reception at the Twin Oaks Estate to celebrate our National Day, the first time such an event was held in 33 years since diplomatic ties between the two countries were severed, marking a significant step forward in our relations. Washington also announced on December 22 last year that Taiwan is now a candidate for its Visa Waiver Program (VWP). All of these developments have fully illustrated the strong and stable friendship between Taiwan and the United States.
Regarding visits by US officials, MOFA received 67 delegations consisting of 442 distinguished guests. Among them, Dr. Rajiv Shah, Administrator at the United States Agency of International Development (USAID), and Daniel Poneman, Deputy Secretary of Energy, were the most senior officials to visit Taiwan in 11 years.
(2) Strengthen relations with Japan and South Korea
a. Relations with Japan
Since a major earthquake struck Japan on March 11 last year, Taiwan and Japan have enjoyed even closer relations. During visits to our country, Japanese politicians on numerous occasions have expressed their gratitude for Taiwan’s generous donations. Furthermore, on November 10 last year our two countries completed an exchange of instruments for the revision of our bilateral aviation agreement, launching a new era of open skies and creating an even better atmosphere for future bilateral relations.
As for visits by Japanese dignitaries, since last October MOFA has received 142 delegations consisting of 2,151 distinguished guests, including former prime ministers Taro Aso and Yoshiro Mori, as well as Yoichi Masuzoe, member of the House of Councilors and the chairperson of the New Party for Reform.
b. Relations with South Korea
In November last year, MOFA and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications held the Second Air Consultation Between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Republic of Korea with our Korean counterparts. The two sides reached a consensus on establishing direct flights between Taipei’s Songshan Airport and Seoul’s Gimpo Airport and on increasing passenger flight capacities between Taoyuan and Incheon airports. On January 20 this year, Taiwan and South Korea also signed a memorandum of understanding for the revision of our bilateral aviation agreement, thereby completing the Northeast Asia Golden Flight Circuit and consolidating our bilateral relations.
Furthermore, a spokesperson of the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade publicly congratulated President Ma on his re-election and for the first time expressed publicly South Korea’s intention to continue to expand substantive cooperation with our country. In addition, MOFA has received many distinguished guests from South Korea since October last year, including Ahn Hyoung-hwan, Member of the National Assembly, and Yu In-chon, former Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, indicating a closer friendship between our two countries.
(3) Deepen relations with the European Union
In October last year, a total of 225 members of the European Parliament wrote a joint letter to President Ma to congratulate our country on its centennial celebrations. In the letter, they reiterated their support for the signing of a Taiwan-EU economic cooperation agreement (ECA) and for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations and conventions such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). After the presidential elections earlier this year, Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, issued a statement on behalf of all 27 member states of the European Union to congratulate President Ma on his re-election and to welcome the improvement of cross-strait relations, highlighting the strengthened friendship between Taiwan and the European Union.
In addition, Taiwan was granted the right by the European Union to use and translate the fourth edition of the Best Management Practices for Protection against Somalia-Based Piracy (BMP4) into traditional Chinese. These copies will be distributed to owners of commercial vessels and fishing boats to further strengthen maritime security and counter-piracy efforts. We have also established communication channels with the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) to frequently exchange intelligence on piracy-related issues.
Since October last year, Taiwan and EU countries have signed many inter-governmental agreements, including: the Memorandum of Understanding on Operational Cooperation between the Customs Service of Taiwan and the Italian Customs Agency; Agreement between the Ministry of Education of the Republic of China and the Congregation for Catholic Education of the Holy See on Collaboration in the Field of Higher Education and on the Recognition of Studies, Qualifications, Diplomas and Degrees; Memorandum of Understanding between the Financial Supervisory Commission of Taiwan and the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier of Luxembourg; Agreement between the Taipei Representative Office in the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Institute in Taipei for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income and on Capital. In addition, the Exchange of Notes between Delegation Culturelle et Economique de Taipei and Trade Office of Swiss Industries on Amendment to the Agreement Concerning the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income entered into effect on January 1 this year.
Since October last year MOFA has received 27 delegations consisting of 91 distinguished guests from the European Union, including: President of the Constitutional Court of Belgium Marc Bossuyt; former President of the Republic of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus; former Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ireland James G. Collins; former Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Eimert van Middelkoop; Secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples Archbishop Savio Tai-Fai Hon; and Prefect of the Congregation for Catholic Education of the Holy See His Eminence Zenon Card. Grocholewski.
(4) Expand relations with ASEAN countries and India
a. Establish representative office in Chennai, India
On October 31 last year, India gave Taiwan permission to establish a representative office in Chennai, the capital of the southern state Tamil Nadu, marking another achievement of the viable diplomacy policy.
b. Promote the signing of economic cooperation agreements (ECA)
After official negotiations were initiated with Singapore for the ASTEP, Taiwan and New Zealand started a joint study on the feasibility of signing an ECA. In addition, Taiwan and an Indonesian think tank have completed a joint study on the signing of an ECA.
c. Engage in dialogue regarding South China Sea issues
Taiwan will continue to handle issues related to the South China Sea based on the principles of safeguarding sovereignty, shelving disputes, upholding peace and reciprocity, and promoting joint exploration. We will cooperate with relevant countries on development, marine science research and biological preservation. In addition, MOFA also dispatched a representative to attend the 21st Workshop on Managing Potential Conflicts in the South China Sea in Solo, Indonesia last November. Participating countries engaged in discussions and exchanged opinions in the hope of reducing the potential for conflicts.
d. Visits by high-ranking officials
Many Taiwanese officials have visited Southeast Asian countries since last October. Deputy Minister of Transportation and Communications Kuo Tsai-wen and Deputy Minister of the Council for Economic Planning and Development Hwang Wan-hsiang visited Vietnam; Deputy Minister of Education Lin Tsong-ming visited Indonesia; Chairperson of the Straits Exchange Foundation Chiang Pin-kung led a delegation to the Philippines; and Executive Yuan Minister without Portfolio Ovid Tzeng visited Malaysia.
From last October to this February, MOFA received 38 delegations totaling 206 distinguished guests, including the Philippines’ Deputy Minister of Health David J. Lozada Jr., Minister of Trade and Industry Gregory L. Domingo, Minister of Science Mario Montejo, Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives Al Francis C. Bichara, and Assistant Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Atty. Anselmo C. Abungan; Indonesia’s Vice Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Congress Hayono Isman, Deputy Minister of Environment Protection Henry Bastaman; Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture Diep Kinh Tan and Deputy Director of the Land Management Bureau of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Phan Van Tho; Malaysia’s Minister for International Trade and Industry Dato’Sri Mustapa Mohamed; and the President of the Victorian Legislative Council of Australia Bruce Atkinson.
(5) Strengthen relations with West Asian countries
a. Taiwan signed an air transportation agreement with Israel this January to increase passenger and cargo capacities. In addition, memorandums of understanding (MOU) on small and medium enterprises (SME) and water technology cooperation were signed during the 9th Taiwan-Israel Economic and Technological Cooperation Conference.
b. Taiwan and Russia co-hosted a director-general level consultation meeting last November. An MOU on education cooperation between Taiwan’s National Academy of Educational Research and Russia’s Academy of Education and Science was signed last October.
c. Taiwan and Saudi Arabia held a second round of consultations on an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation last December.
3. Meaningful participation in international organizations and mechanisms
In September 2008, MOFA proposed for the first time to strive for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in specialized organizations under the United Nations, adjusting our strategy by asking diplomatic allies to voice support for Taiwan in the UN General Assembly. This pragmatic and rational approach has been well received by the international community and has achieved substantive results.
Several permanent representatives to the United Nations of our diplomatic allies, including Ambassador Susan Waffa-Ogoo from The Gambia, Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Ambassador Héctor Virgilio Alcántara from the Dominican Republic, visited Taiwan from February 13 to 18 this year. They exchanged opinions with our officials on measures to strengthen Taiwan’s interaction with the United Nations.
(1) International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Kurt Campbell, US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, publicly expressed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the ICAO last October. In addition, both Houses of the US Congress, the Belgian Chamber of Representatives and several US state legislatures, including those of Mississippi, Iowa, Arizona, Arkansas and Utah, adopted resolutions this February to support Taiwan’s participation in the ICAO as an observer.
(2) World Trade Organization (WTO)
Minister of Economic Affairs Shih Yen-hsiang led a delegation to attend the WTO’s 8th Ministerial Conference in Geneva, Switzerland last December, and held extensive discussions with other member states on three major issues: multi-lateral trade mechanisms and their connections to the WTO, trade and development, and the Doha Round negotiations. Moreover, permanent representative to the WTO Lin Yi-fu was elected as coordinator of the Recently Acceded Members (RAMs), and Counselor Fang Jui-song was elected chair of the WTO’s Committee on Trade in Civil Aircraft (CTCA). Such developments benefit Taiwan’s participation in WTO consultations.
(3) Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)
MOFA held a dinner party to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Taiwan’s participation in APEC. In addition, in November last year former Vice President Lien Chan represented President Ma at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), held in Hawaii, for the fourth consecutive time. He was also invited to participate in a session of the CEO Summit discussing global value-added chains, thereby elevating Taiwan’s visibility.
(4) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Before the COP17 was held in Durban, South Africa, last December, many diplomatic allies wrote to the UNFCCC’s secretariat to support Taiwan’s participation in the meeting, including Palau and 15 other countries (three more than in 2010). In addition, diplomatic allies spoke up for Taiwan at high-level COP17 meetings, including Panama and 13 other countries (five more than in 2010).
During the international press conference on the Global Campaign for Climate Action/Health Care without Harm held during COP17, Director-General of Health Promotion Chiou Shu-ti served as a co-speaker with WHO officials and other international health experts. This was a significant achievement, since it was the first time that a Taiwanese official participated in a UNFCCC international press conference, showing that Taiwan’s active participation in the WHO has been recognized by the international community.
(5) Other international organizations and activities
Taiwan sent a delegation to attend the 2nd Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) as an observer this January, an important step for Taiwan as we strive to promote renewable energy and facilitate the development of green energy industries.
MOFA also assisted the Research, Development and Evaluation Commission of the Executive Yuan with the organization of the 45th annual meeting of the International Council for Information Technology in Government Administration (ICA). In addition, Taiwan has attended several other international conferences with good results, including the 6th meeting of the compliance committee and 18th annual meeting of the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT), the 22nd general assembly of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT), and the 3rd preparatory conference of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization (SPRFMO). All these conferences generated satisfactory results.
4. Measures aimed at providing greater convenience for the public
(1) Strive for inclusion in more visa-waiver and landing visa programs
Currently, a total of 126 countries and areas grant ROC nationals visa-free or landing-visa treatment, 72 countries more than the 54 countries that did so before President Ma took office in 2008, representing growth of 133%. This has not only helped ROC nationals save NT$838 million in visa fees, but has also enhanced the convenience and dignity that Taiwanese enjoy when traveling, studying or doing business abroad.
(2) Provide emergency contact service for overseas travelers
MOFA has established a 24-hour Emergency Contact Center service that is open each day of the year. The emergency contact number of the center is sent to overseas nationals via text messages with the help of domestic telecom operators. Currently, 95% of Taiwan’s mobile phone users can receive the text messages, and more than 830,000 messages have been sent so far. In addition, MOFA is also actively developing applications to provide nationals with overseas travel information, so as to reinforce emergency aid mechanisms.
(3) Digitalize document authentication
The Statute for Document Authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Embassies and Missions Abroad entered into effect on November 16, 2011, and serves as the legal basis for MOFA and overseas missions to conduct document authentication. MOFA will continue to promote the digitalization of document authentication for the convenience of the public.
5. Other achievements
(1) Cultural exchanges
MOFA has actively assisted the Council for Cultural Affairs in establishing Taiwan Academies abroad. Taiwan Academies were officially opened in New York, Los Angeles, and Houston last October. Also, 171 contact points for Taiwan Academies have been set up in 54 countries to construct a global partnership.
(2) International youth exchanges
a. Working holiday agreements
Following New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Canada, Germany and South Korea, we signed an agreement with the United Kingdom for the Youth Mobility Scheme (working holiday agreement), further expanding opportunities for Taiwanese youths to experience foreign lifestyles and cultures.
b. Scholarship programs
Two scholarship programs, including the Taiwan Scholarship and Huayu Enrichment Scholarship, provided opportunities for 463 outstanding overseas youths to attend training courses or degree programs in Taiwan last year.
c. Youth ambassadors
Last October, sixteen youth ambassadors for traditional arts were sent to eight countries in West Asia, including Saudi Arabia (Jeddah), Israel, Turkey, Mongolia, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Jordan, Bahrain and Oman, to engage in cultural exchanges. They performed at National Day receptions held by representative offices, and their performances were very well received by the people of the host countries.
(3) International academic exchanges
To promote academic exchanges, MOFA this year has assisted another six scholars in conducting research on diplomacy-related issues at academic institutes in the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, South Korea and Thailand. Last year, MOFA’s Taiwan Fellowship program provided scholarships to 90 foreign scholars to conduct research in Taiwan at various universities and academic institutes, in the hope of facilitating interactions between researchers and reinforce foreign support for Taiwan.
(4) International humanitarian aid
MOFA has incorporated public and private resources to effectively reinforce overseas humanitarian aid programs, and assisted Taiwanese charity organizations in establishing overseas subsidiaries to expand Taiwan’s humanitarian aid network.
In addition, MOFA has continued to make use of a special humanitarian aid fund to provide assistance to victims of natural disasters or famine in Brazil, Japan, Bangladesh, Italy, the Philippines, Libya and the Horn of Africa through the Pontifical Council Cor Unum of the Holy See, which has acknowledged Taiwan as its best humanitarian aid partner. In providing flood aid to Thailand, MOFA made two donations totaling US$200,000 to the Thai government. In addition, 60,000 kilograms of aid materials were sent, and experts were dispatched to hold post-disaster health seminars. When Mindanao of the Philippines was hit hard by Typhoon Washi last December, MOFA rushed to donate US$150,000 to the Philippine government, helping the victims reconstruct their homes and resume their daily lives.
(5) People’s diplomacy
a. Assist Taiwanese NGOs in expanding international involvement
MOFA continues to support Taiwanese NGOs in their efforts to participate in and organize international conferences and activities. This year, MOFA plans to work with Mercy Corps, a major international non-governmental organization (INGO), and send personnel of Taiwanese NGOs to attend Mercy Corps’ international cooperation program in central Asia, in the hope of further developing human resources of Taiwanese NGOs in the international arena. MOFA also presented awards to 17 individuals and NGOs for their excellent achievements in international participation at a recently held New Year’s reception for NGOs.
b. Young Diplomats English Competition
MOFA organized the Young Diplomats English Competition. The three winning teams, composed of senior high school students, visited Washington, New York and Boston in the United States from January 30 to February 7.
VI. Developments in the international community
1. International politics
Several Asian countries, as well as the United States and Russia, are holding major elections this year. Mainland China will have a leadership succession, and North Korea’s new leader is still in a transition period. In 2014, India and Indonesia will also have elections. The outcomes of these elections could have a profound political and economic impact on the region, and MOFA will therefore closely follow related developments.
2. International economy
The United States suffered through a sub-prime financial crisis in 2008, which led to a full-fledged global financial crisis. In 2011, the European debt crisis caused more stagnation in the global economy. Meanwhile, the newly emerging economies of mainland China, India, Brazil, Russia and South Africa have become the principal drivers of global economic growth. At the same time, in trying to find solutions for the European debt crisis, G20 countries view the newly emerging nations as important sources of financial aid. These developments have made the multi-polar structure of the world economy even more apparent, with the United States, mainland China, Europe, Japan, India, Brazil and Russia all being major players.
3. Competition and cooperation between the United States and mainland China
Mainland China’s power has continued to increase during the past several years, leading to increasing competition between the United States and mainland China. Mainland China is now the largest holder of US debt and wields increasing influence on the international stage. All of these developments have raised US suspicions and propelled them to adopt more countermeasures. Although the United States and mainland China have agreed to build a constructive and cooperative partnership based on mutual respect and benefit, and to build mechanisms for strategic and economic dialogues and consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs, they still have differences on issues such as North Korea, Iran and so on. In addition, mainland China insists on its sovereignty over Taiwan and the South China Sea, has made insufficient progress on human rights issues, and refuses to talk with the United States on internet security mechanisms, showing there is still a lack of mutual trust between the two sides. In particular, the United States has been promoting the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) through APEC and the East Asia Summit and putting pressure on mainland China regarding the Renminbi exchange rate in recent years, which has raised the level of competition in the relationship between the two countries.
Xi Jinping, the leading candidate to become the next General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, visited the United States on February 14. According to mainland China’s official statistics, the size of its economy has increased fourfold over the past decade. It has rapidly become the major challenger to the United States in terms of geopolitical influence in Asia. It is expected that the competition-cooperation relationship between the United States and mainland China will further increase in intensity over the next decade.
4. Our strategies
(1) Employ global strategic thinking
Our government has launched the viable diplomacy policy, and employs a global strategy focused on building up Taiwan, linking Taiwan to the Asia-Pacific region and deploying around the world. We will make the most of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) signed with mainland China and assist Taiwanese businesses in creating more business opportunities.
(2) Understand the nature of international power politics
Taiwan needs to find a safe place to occupy within the larger context of the competition-cooperation relationship between the United States and mainland China. The best scenario for Taiwan is to continue to ease tensions with mainland China and to increase mutual trust and cooperation with the United States, Japan, the European Union and ASEAN countries, so that we can further develop our economy and maintain regional peace and stability.
(3) Uphold democratic values
Our country has been hailed as “a beacon of democracy in Asia”, and our values are in line with mainstream global trends. Taiwan is showing mainland China the way towards democracy and freedom in the political realm.
V. Prospects for the viable diplomacy policy
1. Continuity of viable diplomacy
(1) Consolidate diplomatic ties and deepen substantive relations
Through mutual visits of high-ranking officials, international cooperation and humanitarian aid, MOFA will continue to consolidate its relations with diplomatic allies. MOFA will also adhere to three key principles – seeking proper goals, acting lawfully, exercising effective administration – when carrying out its foreign aid policy, so as to improve the well-being of people in countries with which we maintain diplomatic relations.
MOFA will continue to strengthen substantive relations and exchanges with the United States, Japan, ASEAN, Europe and other major countries by promoting cooperation in economy, trade, technology, culture, education and humanitarian aid, among other areas.
(2) Expand participation through steady pragmatism
MOFA will continue to closely follow developments on key issues being discussed and promoted in the UN system, such as civil aviation security, humanitarian assistance, health and medical care, nuclear power, women, labor, culture, climate change and energy conservation and carbon reduction. We will use a pragmatic and flexible approach to expand our participation in international organizations relevant to our country’s development and our people’s well-being, and establish substantive cooperative ties.
(3) Create opportunities through economic and trade diplomacy
With global trade liberalization, MOFA continues to push ahead with promoting economic cooperation agreements (ECAs) with our major trade partners. Our government will also communicate with TPP members through APEC to keep abreast of TPP negotiations, so as to cultivate favorable conditions for joining the TPP within 10 years.
(4) Cultural exchanges and humanitarian aid
MOFA will assist with setting up Taiwan Academies and relevant contact points abroad to strengthen Chinese language teaching, Taiwan studies and sinology research in order to promote our Chinese culture with Taiwan characteristics. We will also reinforce cooperation with INGOs using diverse and innovative channels, in order to increase our international visibility, strengthen international friendships and contribute to the well-being of all mankind.
2. Prospects for viable diplomacy
(1) Exploit Taiwan’s soft power
Taiwan’s achievements in terms of democratic politics, human rights protection, rule of law, economic development, public-private partnerships, human resources, cultural preservation, humanitarian care and environmental protection have been widely recognized by the international community. They constitute important elements of our soft power and provide a solid foundation for promoting viable diplomacy.
After this year's presidential election on January 14, 76 countries, including the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, Singapore and the European Union, sent letters or telegrams, or issued statements, to congratulate President Ma on his re-election and recognize our democratic achievements. In addition, the European and US press praised Taiwan as an excellent example of democracy in Asia. As President Ma has previously stated, “The biggest asset of our foreign affairs is not the New Taiwan Dollar, but the institution and vibrant energy of Taiwan’s democratic system.” We want to demonstrate the robustness and vitality of Taiwan’s democratic system to the world.
In addition, Taiwan is blessed with talented people in a wide variety of fields. For example, Taiwanese Go players Shei Imin and Cho U, as well as athletes such as Yani Tseng, Yen-Hsun Lu, Chien-Min Wang, and Taiwanese American Jeremy Lin have all helped to increase positive coverage of Taiwan in the international press. Other well-known Taiwanese personalities include Chen Shu-chu from Taitung, founder of the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation Master Cheng Yen, and master baker Mr. Wu Pao-Chun, while major artistic and cultural groups include the Taipei Philanthropic Chamber Choir, Utheatre, Contemporary Legend Theatre, Ming Hwa Yuan Arts and Cultural Group, Cloud Gate Theater and Ju Percussion Group. They represent valuable assets for our soft power and are excellent spokespersons for Taiwan in the international community.
(2) Create a high-quality national image
In the era of globalization, a national brand can reflect current advantages and future development visions. Therefore, building a national brand will be beneficial to our country in the competitive international arena.
MOFA will continue to communicate with the general public, through various public diplomacy channels and media, in order to consolidate public support for our national brand and to enhance understanding of and participation in foreign affairs, thereby achieving the goals of our policies.
MOFA will encourage government departments to share and integrate information, arrange interviews for high-level officials with key international media outlets, publish advertisements promoting our national image, invite important media to visit Taiwan, and strengthen content of external government websites, so as to enhance the understanding of and support for our country in the international community.
(3) Continue to enhance the efficiency of our MOFA team
In order to significantly enhance Taiwan's national competitiveness, MOFA will continue to comply with the schedule of the Task Force for Organizational Reform of the Executive Yuan. The Organizational Act of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Organizational Act of the Bureau of Consular Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Organizational Act of the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were passed on October 28 last year following three readings in the Legislative Yuan. In addition, the Organization Act of Overseas Diplomatic Missions of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was passed on January 20 this year following three readings in the Legislative Yuan. MOFA will continue to abide by relevant regulations and government reforms to create a streamlined, flexible and efficient government.
Among the concrete results of the viable diplomacy policy, inclusion in visa-waiver programs of more than 100 countries, territories and regions has impressed the general public the most. As times change, foreign affairs work continues to evolve. Foreign affairs are now closely related to the daily lives of our people, and our officials are on the frontlines in terms of serving the general public. Therefore, I often remind MOFA colleagues to provide quick, friendly and efficient services to our citizens, so as to give them a sense of pride in their country. Our foreign services training program focuses not only on professional skills, but also character, passion and efficiency, which will be key elements in making our government restructuring a success.
(4) Aim for sustainable, peaceful development
Security across the Taiwan Strait is a critical precondition for Taiwan to pursue its development. Creating a mechanism to maintain cross-strait peace and stability will not only safeguard security and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, but is also beneficial to the common interests of democracies worldwide. Since the viable diplomacy policy was adopted four years ago, it has created a path of peace and stability for cross-strait relations. As we are facing global challenges in terms of security, energy, economic development and environmental protection in the 21st century, this will help our country participate in international affairs using a diverse, creative and proactive strategy, and fulfill our obligations as a member of the international community.
The ultimate goal of foreign policy is to create a favorable environment for Taiwan’s sustainable development. Our government shoulders the heavy responsibility of ensuring the happiness of the next generation. MOFA will continue to safeguard the ROC's sovereignty, uphold its dignity and make sure that our country has sufficient space to develop and prosper. We will do our utmost to help future generations obtain the necessary resources to prosper and thrive, and lay the foundation for Taiwan’s peaceful and sustainable development.
VI. Conclusion
The Republic of China (Taiwan) will use wisdom and perseverance to promote foreign relations, putting Taiwan first to benefit the people, and achieve our goal of maximizing international support and minimizing threats. MOFA will continue to work hard, so that Taiwan can continue to be a peacemaker, a provider of humanitarian aid, a promoter of cultural exchanges, a creator of new technologies and business opportunities, and a standard bearer of Chinese culture in the international community. We want the world to understand that the Republic of China (Taiwan) is an asset to the international community, a country that should be respected by all and is an inspiration to many. Thank you!