China and Inner Asia

C03: New Perspectives on Taiwan's Defense and Foreign Policy Challenges

Organizer(s)

• JF

  Julia Famularo

  INDOPACOM JIOC, United States

Chair(s)

• BM

  Bradley Murg

  Paragon International University, Cambodia

Paper Presenter(s)

• BM

  Bradley Murg

  Paragon International University, Cambodia
• DT

  Daniel Tobin

  National Intelligence University, United States
• JF

  Julia Famularo

  INDOPACOM JIOC, United States

Discussant(s)

• 

  Shirley Kan

  Global Taiwan Institute (GTI), Advisory Board, United States

Session Abstract: In 2017, Communist Party of China General Secretary Xi Jinping pledged to transform China into “a global leader in terms of composite national strength and international influence” by mid-century, as part of “a new era for socialism with Chinese characteristics.” Two years later, he proclaimed to “Taiwan compatriots” that “the country is growing strong, the nation is rejuvenating, and unification between the two sides of the Strait is the great trend of history.” Conversely, in her 2020 inauguration speech, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stated that over the past 70 years, “Taiwan has grown more resilient and unified through countless challenges. We have resisted the pressure of aggression and annexation. We have made the transition from authoritarianism to democracy. Although we were once isolated in the world, we have always persisted in the values of democracy and freedom, no matter the challenges ahead of us.” This panel provides three unique windows into the challenges Taiwan faces, owing to the contest presented by these two leaders, two visions of governance, and two visions for the future. Daniel Tobin explores how Beijing’s Taiwan policy reflects China's leaders’ larger mid-century ambitions. Bradley Murg sheds light upon one facet of Taiwan’s foreign policy by examining its attempt to deepen engagement with Cambodia, which is generally regarded as China’s closest ally in the region. Julia Famularo considers Taiwan’s defense policy by grappling with the question of Taiwan’s “will to resist” an invasion and occupation. Finally, Shirley Kan places these challenges into a comparative framework for discussion. 

Presentations:

• Taiwan in Cambodia: Taipei's Engagement with China's Closest Southeast Asian Ally
  

  Paper Presenter: Bradley Murg – Paragon International University
• Locating Taiwan in Beijing's Vision for Global Leadership
  

  Paper Presenter: Daniel Tobin – National Intelligence University
• Buttressing Taiwan's "Will to Resist"
  

  Paper Presenter: Julia Famularo – INDOPACOM JIOC