Key Facts on Taiwan-China Relations as New President Assumes Office

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te assumed office on Monday after winning the election in January, sparking renewed tensions between Taiwan and China. The relationship between the two countries has been tumultuous, with China claiming Taiwan as part of its territory under the “one China” policy.

Despite Taiwan asserting its sovereignty as the Republic of China, tensions escalated during the presidency of Chen Shui-bian from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) due to his pro-independence stance. However, relations improved under Ma Ying-jeou of the Kuomintang (KMT), who sought closer ties with China.

Since Tsai Ing-wen of the DPP took office in 2016, Taiwan-China relations have deteriorated, with China taking aggressive actions such as cutting off dialogue and pressuring foreign firms to refer to Taiwan as part of China. The recent inauguration of President Lai has further strained relations, as China believes he, like Tsai, supports Taiwan’s formal independence.

As tensions rise, Taiwan has been encouraging Taiwanese businesses to diversify their investments away from China. The United States, despite not having formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, is obligated to assist in its defense under the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, much to China’s displeasure.

With China’s military capabilities surpassing Taiwan’s, the region remains on edge as both sides navigate the delicate balance of power. As Taiwan braces for potential military maneuvers from China, the world watches closely to see how the situation unfolds.