Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu discusses Taiwan's defense strategy and security in the face of China's threat. The podcast explores the parallels between Ukraine and Taiwan, the impact of public diplomacy and military preparedness, Taiwan's semiconductor industry, security relations, and concerns of Chinese economic slowdown on Taiwan.
Taiwan is concerned that failure to stop the war in Ukraine may encourage China to launch a war against Taiwan.
Taiwan is drawing lessons from Ukraine's determination to defend against Russian aggression and is focusing on asymmetric warfare and strengthening international support.
Deep dives
Taiwan's Concerns over the War in Ukraine
Taiwan is paying close attention to the war in Ukraine as it sees similarities between a potential invasion of Taiwan and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Taiwanese people worry that if other countries fail to stop the war in Ukraine, it may encourage China to launch a war against Taiwan. Taiwan aims to support Ukraine and prevent the war in Ukraine from happening, as it believes that the international community's ability to stop the Russian invasion influenced China's possible intentions towards Taiwan.
Lessons Learned from the War in Ukraine
Taiwan has been closely observing the war in Ukraine and drawing lessons from it. The determination of the Ukrainians to defend their freedom and sovereignty against Russian aggression has inspired Taiwan to strengthen its own determination and improve military preparedness. Taiwan is focusing on preparing for asymmetric warfare, taking pointers from Ukraine's effective use of such tactics. It also recognizes the importance of international support and has been working to strengthen relations with key democratic partners, as well as seeking support from major gatherings and organizations.
International Support and Taiwan's Importance
Taiwan places great importance on international support, especially in the face of growing Chinese aggression. It has witnessed major democracies expressing support for Taiwan, emphasizing the significance of peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait and opposing unilateral changes to the status quo. Taiwan views international support as an essential deterrent that signals unity against China's military coercion. It has been actively working to enhance relations with key countries, including the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan, and values their backing in strengthening Taiwan's resilience.
Challenges and Support for Taiwan's Defense
Taiwan acknowledges the complexities of its defense and the need for a balanced approach. While it appreciates public diplomatic visits from officials, including those from the United States, Taiwan must also consider the potential risks and military threats posed by China. It seeks to strike a balance between gaining support and being prepared militarily, ensuring that visits from foreign officials do not compromise Taiwan's defense readiness. Taiwan places great importance on continuing to build strong relations with the United States, as well as other nations, to enhance its defense capabilities and deter potential Chinese aggression.
Taiwan has long lived under the shadow of China’s desire to take over its territory. And as China’s economy and military have grown, so too has the threat of a potential invasion. What is Taipei’s strategy for defense and security, and how is it marshaling support from other countries? Ravi Agrawal is joined by Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.