Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung asserts India’s pivotal role in countering China’s challenges in the Indo-Pacific. He emphasized the importance of collaboration for a cohesive defense strategy through alliances like the Quad. Highlighting economic ties, particularly in semiconductors, Lin called for initiatives to enhance bilateral investment and joint ventures, while advocating for a united front against authoritarian expansionism.
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung emphasized the critical role of India in countering China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region during a recent press briefing. Addressing the challenges posed by China’s expansionist policies, Lin articulated that Taiwan aims to collaborate closely with India and other like-minded nations, particularly through frameworks like the Quad, AUKUS, G7, and Five Eyes, to establish a robust defensive strategy in the face of Beijing’s actions. He highlighted the necessity of a unified response to China’s challenges, which are undermining the established rules-based international order. Lin noted the burgeoning cooperation between Taiwanese semiconductor companies and nations such as India, Japan, and the United States, aiming to create a diversified supply chain resistant to Chinese influence. He pointed out that both Taiwan and India share concerns regarding economic coercion emanating from China and should work together to enhance bilateral trade and investment, advocating for potential free trade agreements and supportive regulatory environments for Taiwanese enterprises in India. Furthermore, Lin criticized the authoritarian nature of the Chinese government and asserted that countries that value democratic governance must unite to uphold the international order. He also referred to Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to promote a clean and resilient supply chain, aimed at distancing from the networks dominated by China. Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Francois Chihchung Wu, echoed these sentiments, noting that the United States and India are pivotal in balancing China’s influence in the region. He acknowledged the significant improvement in Taiwan-India relations over recent years, underscoring the pragmatic approaches adopted by Taiwan to foster ties with countries like India despite lacking formal diplomatic recognition. Though India and Taiwan have yet to formalize diplomatic relations, both have maintained representative offices since 1995, facilitating cooperation in numerous sectors. Trade between Taiwan and India reached $8.2 billion in 2023, showcasing their growing economic partnership.
The geopolitical context surrounding Taiwan and its relationship with India has gained significance as tensions escalate in the Indo-Pacific region. The PRC’s assertive posturing, particularly in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, poses risks to regional stability. As countries in the region confront China’s expansionism through alliances like the Quad, Taiwan positions itself as a critical partner to strengthen collective defense arrangements. Taiwan’s semiconductor industry is vital not only for regional economies but also in the global supply chain, reinforcing its strategic importance in countering China’s influence. Taiwan’s reliance on democratic nations for support against authoritarian regimes exemplifies its commitment to upholding international norms and sovereignty.
In conclusion, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung has called upon India to play a vital role in countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific arena. He highlighted the necessity for like-minded nations to unite and respond collectively to the authoritarian challenge posed by Beijing. The strengthening of economic ties, particularly in the semiconductor sector, reflects the mutual concerns shared by Taiwan and India regarding China’s assertiveness. This collaboration not only aims to create a resilient supply chain but also seeks to preserve the existing rules-based international order amid rising tensions.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
