The Intelligence from The Economist Tsai hopes: Taiwan’s president on tour
Jul 12, 2019
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief at The Economist, dives into the complexities of Taiwan’s diplomatic relations during President Tsai Ing-wen’s significant visit to the U.S. He discusses Taiwan's strategic importance amid rising tensions with China. Meanwhile, author Chloe Hooper reflects on the devastating Black Saturday bushfires in Australia, uncovering the motivations behind arson. The conversation also touches on France's strict book pricing laws and how they aim to protect local bookstores while adapting to modern challenges.
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Taiwan's Diplomatic Tightrope
- Taiwan's president, Tsai Ing-wen, faces a diplomatic challenge due to limited recognition and China's stance.
- Despite this, Taiwan remains a significant trade partner for the US and a key player in the Western Pacific.
Tsai's US Visit and Arms Sales
- Tsai Ing-wen's visit to America aims to bolster support for Taiwan, particularly given the current political climate.
- The US recently approved substantial arms sales to Taiwan, underscoring its role as a security guarantor.
China's Reaction and Historical Context
- China's response to the visit has been relatively standard, with complaints in state media.
- A past visit by a Taiwanese president led to missile tests by China, demonstrating the high stakes involved.
