Taiwan pursues a bilateral trade agreement with Canada, intensifying efforts to enhance its international economic engagements while confronting China’s diplomatic squeeze. Deputy Trade Representative Jen-ni Yang conveyed Taiwan’s ambitions to solidify its trade foundation through this deal, an extension of the investor protection accord sealed with Canada in late 2023. This strategy reflects Taiwan’s broader objective to diversify its economic alliances beyond its heavy reliance on China, particularly as cross-strait tensions escalate.
With its share of exports to China dwindling to a 21-year nadir, Taiwan actively seeks to bolster connections with democratic nations upholding the rule of law, including Canada, Australia, Japan, and the United States. Concurrently, Taiwan aims for admission into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), navigating challenges posed by China’s preceding application.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kelly Hsieh’s forthcoming discussions in Ottawa underscore the urgency of deepening Taiwan-Canada economic relations. Taiwan, Canada’s twelfth-largest trade ally and a principal partner in Asia, navigates the complexities of engaging with a nation that has not formally recognized it since realigning diplomatic ties to China in 1970.
Amidst China’s aggressive posture and its campaign to diplomatically marginalize Taiwan—diminishing its pool of international allies and obstructing participation in global forums—Ottawa exhibits caution. Any engagement seeks to bolster Taiwan without inciting Chinese ire.
As Canada prepares to lead the CPTPP commission, the opportunity arises to champion transparent, merit-based criteria for evaluating new membership bids, potentially facilitating Taiwan’s integration.
Taiwan’s position as a highly competitive economy underscores its readiness for CPTPP membership amidst Beijing’s intensified efforts to isolate the island and restrict its global participation. This pivotal moment in Taiwan’s quest for broader economic integration marks a significant juncture amid the ongoing geopolitical shifts and cross-strait dynamics.
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