S4-E2 - Taiwan (the ROC) and Israel - Surprising Shared Histories

Did you know:

• In 1920, ROC founder Sun Yat-sen wrote a letter in support of Israel’s nationhood aspirations? And, the ROC govt in Nanjing was the first Asian state to recognize the State of Israel in 1948?
• Israel was the first non-communist nation to recognize the People's Republic of China?
• However: Israel and the PRC only set up official relations in 1992, and a year later opened a trade office/de facto embassy in Taiwan. 
• Taiwan sought Israel’s help with atomic-related matters. 

This episode isn’t a commentary on current events. Instead, it’s a conversation with 91-year-old professor Meron Medzini from Jerusalem, who was awarded a medal for contributions to bilateral ties and Taiwan studies. This is an episode for hardcore history lovers, with loads of fascinating stories and, “now we know” info from a man who watched Israel, China (the PRC), and modern democratic Taiwan grow and evolve from their inceptions.

Check out formosafiles.com for pics, links, and more.