Analyzing the Evolution of China-Taiwan Relations: US as a Factor

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to discuss role of US in China-Taiwan relations. According to Colonel Skinner, the resolution of the ROC dispute between PRC and the U.S. remains uncertain but possible. Given the longstanding involvement of the U.S. in this issue, it is likely to persist for many years into the future. What we are talking about here is one of the most dangerous flashpoints in the world, where there is a potential for hot war involving America and PRC. For PRC, this is an atavism from its civil war tension and Cold War past which was never resolved then but has become infinitely more urgent now. There are many people in the American who ask themselves: "Why do we have to pay so much for ROC and help her, especially since fighting over it could result in a nuclear standoff with mighty PRC?" The same, is necessary to understand what makes PRC so determined in its quest for ROC that they are willing to risk other political and economic ends. Employing a power-theory approach, this qualitative study investigated multiple sources of data: books, journals and the internet. The behavior of the United States in fact did a lot to put things where they are today menacingly poised as evidenced by military aid, ambiguous affirmation or dispute over territorial claims on PRC against ROC base upon political convenience and for the economic-cultural health linkages built. It recommends phasing out American ambiguity toward ROC in support of a more impartial American mediation approach towards the PRC-ROC issue. A true mediator is supposed to remain neutral in order to help both parties reach a peaceful solution.