The Issue Being Addressed
The strategy for PR China to uphold the status quo regarding the sovereignty of Taiwan is to safeguard a robust military presence in the Taiwan Strait as a deterrent to any potential threats from Taiwan. By maintaining a robust military presence, China can ensure a prompt response to any potential threats (Boon & Sworn, 2020). In addition, China may seek to engage in diplomatic and economic discussions with Taiwan to promote peace and stability in the region. Therefore, the strategy addresses the security concern that Taiwan’s declaration of independence could trigger a conflict between the two countries, potentially leading to a military confrontation and further regional instability.
Recommended End State
The suggested end state for safeguarding the state of affairs on the sovereignty regarding Taiwan is to pursue a peaceful and stable relationship with Taiwan. It is supposed to respect the autonomy and dignity of the Taiwanese people while firmly upholding the One-China principle (Chen, 2019). The principle, the cornerstone of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) policy for decades, is based on the idea that there is only one China, and Taiwan is an inseparable part. The PRC’s end state should be to pursue a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan issue and maintain the cross-strait relationship’s status quo (Chen, 2019). This would involve continuing to promote dialogues and exchanges between the two sides while focusing on economic and social integration. This should be done without prejudice to either side’s political position and without resorting to military or other coercive means.
The PRC should continue to work towards a peaceful reunification in the long term while respecting the Taiwanese people’s autonomy and dignity. This should involve constructive dialogue, negotiations between the two sides, and mutual respect for each other’s core interests and concerns (Chen, 2019). The PRC should pursue policies that promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and the economic and social well-being of the Taiwanese people. This could involve initiatives such as allowing Taiwanese students to study in the PRC, allowing Taiwanese people to invest in the PRC, and promoting trade and cultural exchanges between the two sides (Chen, 2019). China’s long-term vision should be to work towards a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan issue while honoring the independence and dignity of the Taiwanese population.
The Strategic Environment
The strategic environment in which Taiwan’s sovereignty will be established is complicated. Firstly, the US has maintained a policy of strategic vagueness on the issue, which has led to a stalemate in the region (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). Secondly, the PRC has been unwilling to compromise on the matter, with the potential to use military force where appropriate. Thirdly, Taiwan has been reluctant to consent to its sovereignty, making the situation even more complex (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). Fourthly, Japan and other regional nations have continued to take a cautious approach to the problem, whereas the US and other major powers have sought to contain the situation (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). Therefore, the strategic environment is characterized by a stalemate and a lack of consensus.
The Objectives
The PRC is committed to safeguarding the state of affairs on Taiwan’s sovereignty. This means that they will not accept any form of independence from Taiwan (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). The PRC must meet certain objectives to sustain the existing situation. The first objective is to keep diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Participating in international forums and maintaining an open dialogue between the two countries are examples. Furthermore, The PRC must acknowledge the legitimacy of Taiwan’s government and policies (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). This assists in safeguarding the status quo and ensures that Taiwan remains under control. Therefore, for the PRC to effectively handle the situation, one of the objectives should be to promote diplomatic relations.
The second objective is the maintenance of robust economic ties with Taiwan. This includes negotiating trade agreements, investing capital in Taiwan’s economy, and promoting tourism between China and Taiwan (Yau, 2019). PRC must allow Taiwanese companies and investors to participate in the Chinese market. This will assist in making sure that Taiwan does not become economically independent of the PRC. In addition, meeting this goal will ensure that Taiwan remains economically dependent on the PRC (Yau, 2019). This includes engaging in trade, investment, and financial exchanges. By engaging in economic exchanges, the PRC can create an environment of mutual prosperity that makes it more difficult for either side to pursue radical changes in the status quo.
The third objective is for China to engage in public diplomacy to ensure the international community understands and accepts its position on Taiwan’s sovereignty. This involves media campaigns, public speaking, and other forms of communication (Yau, 2019). Additionally, the aim includes educating its citizens about the significance of preserving the existing condition and engaging in dialogue and debate with citizens who disagree with the PRC’s position (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). This will make sure that the PRC has the necessary public support to protect its status in the region. Therefore, China can ensure that the international community views its position on Taiwan’s sovereignty as legitimate and reasonable.
The fourth objective is to create a stable and peaceful environment in the region. The PRC should engage in diplomatic initiatives that foster peace and stability and reduce regional tensions (Yau, 2019). They should work to reduce the risk of conflict by strengthening international cooperation and establishing a peaceful resolution to disputes. This includes creating a model for a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan issue. The PRC should strive to develop a framework that is acceptable to both sides while ensuring that the sovereignty of Taiwan is respected (Yau, 2019). Thus, the context should include measures to protect Taiwan’s rights and interests and provide a peaceful resolution to the issue.
Moreover, China aims to sustain the current situation regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty. The PRC desires to bring Taiwan under its control while simultaneously avoiding any military conflict (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). The intention should be to keep diplomatic ties when handling the situation. Through the attainment of the above-identified objectives, the PRC can ensure that the status quo on the sovereignty of Taiwan is maintained. In addition, they must continue to strive for a peaceful resolution of the issue while taking steps to ensure that Taiwan’s rights and interests are respected (Chen & Shimizu, 2019). Therefore, through diplomatic and economic initiatives, the PRC can promote peace and stability in the region and ensure that the sovereignty of Taiwan is preserved.
The Ways to Achieve the Objectives
Strengthening Trade Relations
One of the ways China can keep the status quo regarding Taiwan is by strengthening trade relations with the mainland. China can demonstrate its commitment to the stability of Taiwan and its relationship with the mainland by increasing the level of economic integration between the two regions (Bush, 2019). For example, the PRC can introduce a favorable environment for trade with Taiwan. This could be accomplished by increasing investments in Taiwan, broadening existing trade agreements, and enhancing transportation links. Thus, enhanced economic ties between the two nations could contribute to de-escalating tensions and creating an environment that is more conducive to productive endeavors.
Negotiations and Dialogue
China can sustain the current affairs regarding Taiwan through negotiations and open dialogue. The Chinese government and the leaders of Taiwan, in addition to the governments of the other countries in the region, will engage in regular discussions and negotiations with one another (Bush, 2019). This may involve discussing various subjects, such as the political and economic relationship between the two nations, as well as issues pertaining to security and the military. China’s dedication to maintaining stability in Taiwan and its ties with the mainland can be demonstrated through ongoing dialogue. Therefore, negotiations and open dialogue can be effective in maintaining the status quo.
Diplomatic Engagement
China can sustain the status quo regarding Taiwan through diplomatic engagement. This could entail attending international conferences to discuss trade and security, establishing diplomatic relations with other nations, and engaging in joint military exercises with Taiwan, among other things (Bush, 2019). Such diplomatic engagement could foster trust between China and Taiwan and demonstrate China’s commitment to the existing state of affairs. Diplomatic engagement could allow China and Taiwan to discuss issues and identify common ground, thereby fostering a more peaceful and stable relationship between the two nations. As a result, China relies heavily on diplomatic engagement in the Taiwan situation.
Cultural Exchange
Cultural exchange is a powerful tool for continuing with the current affairs between China and Taiwan. By participating in such exchanges, both parties can gain a deeper appreciation for one another’s culture and develop mutual respect (Bush, 2019). This can facilitate more productive dialogue and collaboration. Cultural exchanges may include educational programs, cultural festivals, and art and music performances. By learning about their cultures, individuals can become more tolerant and better appreciate others’ perspectives (Bush, 2019). Additionally, such interactions can contribute to a more harmonious relationship between the parties and reduce tensions. Cultural exchange can ultimately be a potent instrument for safeguarding the existing situation between China and Taiwan.
Military Cooperation
Military cooperation between China and Taiwan can help reduce tensions and create an environment of trust and understanding between the two countries. Joint military operations and discussions on arms control and non-proliferation can contribute to developing a more cooperative relationship (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). This could facilitate increased diplomatic dialogue and economic and security collaboration. However, both sides must avoid provocative actions that could further inflame tensions. This may involve avoiding military exercises near Taiwan and avoiding interference in Taiwan’s internal politics (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). Through these measures, China can preserve the existing scenario with Taiwan while fostering a more constructive and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations.
Public Diplomacy
Public diplomacy can enhance the relationship between China and Taiwan by offering a platform for dialogue and collaboration. Through public diplomacy activities, both nations can discuss regional issues, exchange best practices, and build mutual trust (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). Furthermore, public diplomacy can contribute to developing a more informed and engaged public discourse between the two nations. This can aid in reducing tensions and increasing the likelihood of resolving the situation peacefully (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). It can enable both countries to better understand each other’s perspectives and needs, which could lead to more productive negotiations. Therefore, public diplomacy is indispensable for protecting the status quo between China and Taiwan.
Tourism Promotion
The promotion of tourism can be an effective way for China to sustain the current affairs regarding Taiwan. China and Taiwan can build bridges between their two societies by encouraging people from each country to travel to the other and offering incentives for tourism-related businesses (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). In addition, increased tourism can contribute to a more amicable relationship between the two nations. This could involve easing travel between the two countries, fostering relationships between local businesses, and creating activities that encourage cultural collaboration. Thus, tourism promotion could ultimately serve as a means for China and Taiwan to continue with normalcy while taking steps toward a more peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship.
Increased Media Engagement
Improved media engagement between China and Taiwan could be beneficial in maintaining the prevailing situation. Chinese media outlets could cover Taiwan-related issues and vice versa (Kastner & Pearson, 2021). This could contribute to a more enlightened public discourse between the two nations by exposing them to diverse perspectives and viewpoints. In addition, media exchanges between the two nations could be encouraged, allowing their citizens to learn more about one another in a safe and respectful environment. This could aid in fostering mutual understanding and facilitate dialogue between the two countries. Allowing greater media interaction between the two countries could contribute to existing conditions and even lead to a more harmonious relationship in the future.
Resources
The Chinese government can maintain the state of affairs regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty through diplomatic and military means. Diplomatic strategies include strengthening ties with other nations in the region, engaging in negotiations with Taiwan, and offering economic aid and incentives (Liff, 2022). The Chinese government can increase its military presence in the region, maintain a strong navy to deter hostile actions and conduct regular military exercises to showcase its capabilities. In addition, it can continue to use soft power strategies, such as cultural exchanges and educational programs, to strengthen ties with the Taiwanese people. These resources can ultimately be used to defend China’s position on Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Information
Accurate and up-to-date information is essential to safeguard the existing status of the sovereignty of Taiwan. A variety of sources should be used to collect this information. Official government communications, scholarly research, media reports, and social media are all viable sources of information (Liff, 2022). Collecting and analyzing this information makes it possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation. Once these data are analyzed, strategies can be developed to address them and maintain the status quo. Furthermore, collecting and analyzing information regularly will ensure that any changes in the geopolitical situation are identified and responded to in a timely manner.
Diplomatic Resources
Upholding the current state of affairs on the sovereignty of Taiwan requires diplomatic resources. This includes engaging in negotiations and discussions with both parties to build trust and understanding and identify areas of common ground in the situation (Townshend et al., 2019). Participating in initiatives and activities designed to foster dialogue and cooperation is another component of this step. For instance, the US has played a pivotal role as a facilitator throughout this process and has been responsible for organizing a number of high-level meetings between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of China. The United Nations has actively encouraged dialogue and cooperation between the opposing parties.
Economic Resources
Economic resources are essential for continuing with the existing situation on the sovereignty of Taiwan. This includes assisting both parties financially and with their respective development efforts and fostering investment and trade-related endeavors (Townshend et al., 2019). For example, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has endeavored to expand its economic sway in the surrounding area by establishing a number of special economic zones in Taiwan. The ROC has made efforts, including using tax incentives and other measures, to entice overseas investment. Additionally, both sides have collaborated on economic projects, such as the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement, to boost their respective economies.
Security Resources
Security resources are necessary to preserve Taiwan’s current state of sovereignty. This consists of taking precautions to lessen the likelihood of armed conflict and to protect the safety and security of the people of Taiwan (Townshend et al., 2019). The US has been a key player in this process and has offered the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China security aid. In addition, the US has engaged in several diplomatic and economic initiatives to lessen the likelihood of armed conflict. Both parties have tried to lessen the likelihood of a military conflict by implementing confidence-building measures, such as reducing the number of military forces stationed in the Taiwan Strait.
Military Force
Military force is among the most important resources for meeting the strategy on the issue of Taiwan. The PRC has established a significant military presence in the area, which is integral to maintaining peace (Townshend et al., 2019). This includes deploying aircraft, warships, and other military assets and establishing military exercises and other forms of military cooperation with Taiwan. These military assets serve as a deterrent against potential adversaries and demonstrate the PRC’s dedication to maintaining the status quo. In addition, the PRC has engaged in diplomatic efforts to ensure Taiwan’s continued presence within its sphere of influence. The military existence in the region ultimately serves to maintain the situation regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty.
Culture
Culture is a crucial resource that can be used to execute the strategy. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has adopted various initiatives and programs to promote understanding and cooperation between the two sides (Townshend et al., 2019). This includes organizing cultural exchanges between China and Taiwan, such as art exhibitions, music concerts, and other cultural events. It enables dialogue between the two sides, encouraging open dialogue and communication despite political differences. Furthermore, the PRC introduces an element of economic interdependence by establishing various projects and initiatives that promote economic and trade relations between the two sides. Through these efforts, the PRC will ensure a stable and peaceful relationship between China and Taiwan.
International Organizations
The PRC can use international organizations, such as the United Nations, as a platform to advocate for its position on the sovereignty of Taiwan. This includes lobbying for Taiwan’s exclusion from global organizations and resolutions that recognize the PRC as the sole legitimate government of the Chinese people (Townshend et al., 2019). To further this strategy, the PRC could continue to use the UN to further its position on Taiwan’s sovereignty, as well as other international organizations such as the World Trade Organization and the World Health Organization, which can provide platforms for the PRC to further its agenda. Additionally, the PRC could develop relationships with key states and use diplomatic channels to further its aims (Townshend et al., 2019). China must continue to utilize international organizations and diplomatic channels to solidify its position on the sovereignty of Taiwan.
Intelligence Resources
PR China should use intelligence operations to monitor any potential threats in the region to maintain the status quo regarding the sovereignty of Taiwan. This would include monitoring military, political, and economic activities in surrounding states and countries that could threaten China’s sovereignty (Townshend et al., 2019). In addition, PR China should seek to strengthen diplomatic ties with states that recognize its claim to sovereignty over Taiwan while simultaneously developing strong economic, military, and political ties with Taiwan in hopes of promoting stability in the region. PR China should continue to voice its stance through international organizations and diplomatic channels to ensure its position is heard and respected.
Political Resources
PR China should continue to advocate for the One-China policy, which states that Taiwan is part of China and does not seek independence. This can be done through diplomatic channels and by engaging in political dialogue with other nations and regional organizations, such as ASEAN (Townshend et al., 2019). Through this dialogue, PR China can ensure that its position on Taiwan’s sovereignty is respected and the status quo is protected. Furthermore, PR China should use its economic and political power in the region to convey that the status quo will not be challenged. Therefore, PR China should continue to develop strong ties with Taiwan, as this can assist in safeguarding the existing situation and provide stability in the region.
Media Resources
PR China has a great opportunity to use media outlets to spread its message about the status quo in Taiwan. Media can be used to inform the people of China and the world at large about the current situation in Taiwan, including the political and economic implications of the Chinese government’s policies (Townshend et al., 2019). In addition, China can use media to emphasize the importance of cross-Strait cooperation and peaceful reunification. Media outlets can be used to highlight the positive effects of reunification, such as increased economic development and improved social services. Through the promotion of its message through media, China can ensure that its perspective on the issue of Taiwan is disseminated to a wide audience.
Legal Resources
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) should use international laws and treaties to enforce its sovereignty over Taiwan. International law offers a model for the PRC to assert its sovereignty (Townshend et al., 2019). The PRC can depend on the UN Charter and the Joint Communique of the United States and the PRC (1982) to support its claims. Additionally, the PRC can use the norms of self-determination and non-interference to demonstrate its authority. The PRC has the support of a number of international organizations and states, including the African Union and the League of Arab States. Using international legal instruments and international support, the PRC can effectively strengthen its sovereignty over Taiwan.
Risk Analysis
The PRC depends on diplomacy and economic incentives to encourage Taiwanese authorities to accept Chinese sovereignty and reunify with the mainland as part of its strategy to protect the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty. On the diplomatic front, the People’s Republic of China has sought to engage in dialogue with the Taiwanese government and has offered various inducements in economic investments, trade agreements, and diplomatic recognition. While the PRC has had some success, the Taiwanese government has refused to recognize Chinese sovereignty and has maintained its independence. As a result, tensions remain high between the two sides, and the possibility of a military confrontation persists.
The PRC has sought to retain normalcy regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty by relying on its international allies to support its position. However, it has been difficult for the PRC to obtain international support for its position, as many countries, particularly Western countries, have been reluctant to take a stance on the issue due to its sensitivity. This has left the PRC vulnerable, as it has been unable to obtain the support it needs to bolster its position (Townshend et al., 2019). The lack of international support for the PRC’s position on Taiwan’s sovereignty could lead to heightened pressure from global stakeholders, adding further complexity to the situation. Therefore, it could further deteriorate the relationship between the PRC and Taiwan and potentially lead to a conflict.
Secondly, the PRC is expected to preserve the status quo regarding Taiwan’s sovereignty by attempting to unify the nation and its people under a single flag. However, the PRC’s efforts in this regard have been complicated by internal divisions within the nation, particularly between those who favor unification and those who favor Taiwanese independence. This has made it challenging for the PRC to maintain a unified front on the issue, further complicating the situation (Townshend et al., 2019). The internal divisions within the PRC could lead to increased tension between the two sides, potentially leading to a conflict. Thus, the lack of national unity could further strain the relationship between the PRC and Taiwan, possibly escalating into a conflict.
Thirdly, PR China does not possess military capabilities comparable to those of Taiwan, and it has not been successful in matching the Taiwanese government’s level of military might. As a result, the PRC is in a precarious position because it cannot use its military capabilities to strengthen its position (Townshend et al., 2019). The lack of military parity between the two sides can raise tensions, ultimately leading to a conflict if the tensions are not resolved. Therefore, a further decline in relations between the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan is also a possible consequence of the absence of military parity, which raises the risk of armed conflict between the two parties.
Fourthly, the PRC has not successfully gained full international recognition for its position on the issue because many countries have hesitated to take a stance on the matter due to the delicate nature of the situation. The PRC is currently in a precarious position due to this, as it has been unable to obtain the complete international recognition required to strengthen its position (Townshend et al., 2019). The fact that the PRC’s position on Taiwan’s sovereignty is not recognized internationally may result in increased pressure from international actors, further complicating the situation. This may result in a further deterioration of the relationship between the PRC and Taiwan, which may ultimately result in a conflict between the two sides.
Fifthly, the PRC has been unable to maximize the benefits it could derive from its political influence because it has been unable to convince other nations to take its side. As a result, the PRC is in a vulnerable position since it is unable to strengthen its position through political influence (Townshend et al., 2019). The absence of political influence can increase tensions between the two parties, which could ultimately result in a conflict between them. Therefore, a further deterioration of the relationship between the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan is another potential outcome of Taiwan’s lack of political influence, as is the possibility of armed conflict between the two countries.
Moreover, China has not been successful in utilizing its cultural influence to its advantage because it has been unable to convince other countries to support its position. The People’s Republic of China could be precarious because it cannot leverage its cultural influence to bolster its position (Townshend et al., 2019). The absence of cultural influence has the potential to heighten the level of tension that exists between the two parties, which may finally result in conflict. In addition, the absence of cultural influence could further deteriorate the relationship between China and Taiwan, ultimately resulting in a conflict between the two parties.
PR China has been unsuccessful in turning public opinion to its advantage in Taiwan because most of its residents do not favor unification with the mainland. China is now in a precarious position due to this, as it cannot rely on public opinion to bolster its position (Townshend et al., 2019). In addition, the lack of support from the general public may increase tension between the two sides, which may result in a conflict in the future. The absence of public support may also further deteriorate the relationship between the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan, which could eventually lead to a conflict between both sides.
There are potential downsides to the strategy adopted by the PRC to keep things the same about Taiwan’s sovereignty. The potential for armed conflict between the two parties constitutes the most significant threat (Townshend et al., 2019). Despite the PRC’s efforts to dissuade and discourage Taiwan from declaring its independence, the government of Taiwan has remained resolute in its stance and has refused to accept Chinese sovereignty. Consequently, there is still a possibility that the military conflict will escalate, which could result in a highly destructive conflict for both sides.
The PRC’s strategy to continue with the existing state of affairs on the sovereignty of Taiwan is risky. China has had limited success using diplomatic and economic incentives to compel the Taiwanese government to accept Chinese sovereignty, creating the risk of a military confrontation between the two countries (Townshend et al., 2019). The provocative actions of the PRC’s military have contributed to increased tensions between the two camps, which raises the possibility of political unrest. The PRC needs to use a comprehensive strategy that considers the various actors involved and the resources available for the PRC to use to allow for a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
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