Sailing in Troubled Waters: U.S. - Taiwan Security Policy and Emerging Challenges

摘要

Arguably the most complex bilateral strategic security relationship the United States (U.S.) carries with it into the new millennium is that which exists with the People's Republic of China's (PRC) rebel province - Taiwan. Rising from the ashes of World War II and inextricably tied to the deep international chasm carved by Cold War bipolarity, our robust but now unofficial relations with Taipei have brought nearly 50 years of relative security to the Strait and prevented open warfare between Beijing and Taipei. Few foreign policy issues are or should be higher on the US agenda than this often tumultuous but critically important relationship and a peaceful solution to the thorny issues separating the Chinas is an essential ingredient to long-term regional stability and the achievement of U.S. objectives. There is a renewed sense of urgency to review current policy and find better, more effective ways to advance U.S. interests and secure peace. What are the emerging challenges facing U.S. - Taiwan - China policymakers in the region and what should be the nature of our future security relations with Taiwan. After a reviewing current U.S. - Taiwan security policy this paper will explore emerging security challenges and future policy options.