Taiwan
Caring For Its Neighbors
Taiwan’s ‘Duty’ In The Pacific
When Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian met with Pacific leaders in Palau in September, he was facing criticism at home over corruption allegations. In Taipei there were suggestions he traveled to Palau to escape the political heat, but for his “six brothers of the Pacific Islands,” the leaders of Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Palau, Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu, the meeting was significant. Pacific Magazine met with President Chen to discuss Taiwan’s Pacific ambitions, and the political threats facing his administration.
Pacific Magazine: What is Taipei’s most important goal in seeking a broader diplomatic presence in the Pacific Islands—support for its role in international fora or access for its commercial fishing fleets?
Chen Shiu-bian: I believe that both statements are equally incorrect. It’s not for fishing interests or the goal of join international organizations.
The theme of this first Pacific Allies Summit expressed very well the purpose in diplomatic relationships in the Pacific—to strengthen our oceanic democratic alliance through a comprehensive partnership. For the sake of democracy, our oceanic country allies are working together to produce development for our nations.
During the summit we discussed together three major cooperation/aid priority projects. These three are in conformity with the Pacific Islands Forum Pacific Plan. The issues discussed are of common concern. The follow up proposals will serve the interests of all our countries.
We believe Taiwan is the best neighbor for our Pacific allies. It is our duty and responsibility to care for our good neighbors.
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| President Chen Shui-bian received a warm welcome in Palau, where he met what he called “his six brothers of the Pacific Islands.” He is greeted here by Palau President Tommy Remengesau, Jr. [Photo Courtesy: Govt of Taiwan] |
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PM: Under what conditions is Taiwan willing to meet with leaders of China to improve relations?
Chen: I have said in the past that under the principles of sovereignty and democracy, Taiwan is willing to be engaged with China in negotiation and discuss any issues. First, China has to respect that Taiwan does exist; it is a fact that our country exists. Taiwan is a sovereign nation. This is the status quo.
With regard to cross-straight relations, China has to respect the free choice of Taiwan’s 23 million people.
Any dispute between Taiwan and China must be solved through peaceful dialogue. On the basis of a meeting in Hong Kong in 1992, the governments on both sides agreed (to engage in) direct dialogue and then implement the principle of parity. To our regret, China still is trying to marginalize and belittle Taiwan and still refuses to recognize our legitimate sovereignty.
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| Presidents Tommy Remengesau Jr. and Chen Shui-bian show off some of the fish they caught during a fishing tournament held after the Taiwan Pacific Allies Summit in Palau. [Photo Courtesy: Govt of Taiwan] |
Chen: All countries have their problems, and have ruling and opposition parties. It is clear that before May and before the current Solomon Islands government was formed, the Solomons ruled by the previous ruling party maintained good relations with Taiwan. The new government also has good relations with Taiwan.
Last January, I became first (Taiwan) president to visit the Solomons. Former Prime Minister Allan Kemakeza visited Taiwan. In August, the new prime minister (Manasseh Sogavare) visited Taipei.
Both ruling and opposition parties maintain good relations with Taiwan. It is true that previously some Cabinet members (recommended) that the Solomons establish diplomatic ties with China. However, the prime minister replaced those Cabinet ministers with others who support ties with Taiwan.
Relations have lasted more than two decades with the Solomon Islands. We cherish the relationship. Some may wish to change it. But that’s an internal problem in the Solomon Islands. We have nothing to do with that.
In 2000, the Solomon Islands faced serious internal problems. Almost all diplomatic staff left the country. The staff in the Taiwan Embassy was the only one that stayed. It shows our determination to stand hand-in-hand with the Solomon Islands. The accusation that Taiwan interfered into the internal politics of the Solomon Islands is totally groundless. It is a great insult to the people and government of Taiwan.
PM: If the People’s Liberation Army (of China) strikes Taiwan, is Taiwan prepared?
Chen: We’re continuing to maintain a strong self-defense capability. (But) consolidation of democracy and the rule of law are the best defense against China. The reason we prepare for the possibility of war is because we want to avoid and prevent war. As the leader of Taiwan, I will try my best to avoid my country engaging in war.
According to the United States-Taiwan Relations Act, the U.S. has a duty to assist with Taiwan defense. Of course, if China takes irrational steps to use force against Taiwan, we are fully prepared to respond to the situation. Therefore, because Taiwan is fully prepared for a scenario of war with China, we don’t see this in the foreseeable future—even though it has intentions to invade.
PM: At the Pacific Islands Forum in Papua New Guinea last year, Taiwan officials talked about the possibility of opening up their labor markets to Pacific Islanders. Can you discuss where this proposal stands?
Chen: We are now actively planning for this. We will definitely open our labor market to our diplomatic allies. Taiwan does need more workers. We now have 300,000 foreign workers, mostly Asian. Although we don’t have diplomatic relations (with the governments of these workers) we are willing to let the workers come to Taiwan.
We have no reason to refuse people from our Pacific allies if they really want to come. We will definitely open our labor market to them.
