The People's Republic and Taiwan: Time for a New Cross-Strait Bargain
Abstract
To avoid renewed PRC-Taiwan tensions and facilitate U.S.-China relations, it is necessary and possible to craft a new cross-strait bargain reflecting new political realities. An initial quid pro quo would be China's renouncing the use of force in return for Taiwan's renouncing independence. Though Beijing does not seek reunification in the near term, its pressures on Taipei will abate only if Beijing is convinced that Taipei has given up any intention of declaring independence. From Beijing's perspective, the test of Taipei's intentions will be Taipei's acceptance of the one China principle- something Taiwan is unlikely to do unless it can participate in the United Nations. Taiwan's emergence as an economically strong, full-fledged democracy requires a new set of understandings between China and Taiwan and new expectations of both about the U.S. role in the tripartite relationship. Washington can play a useful catalytic role in quietly making the case for a new modus vivendi. However, the United States should continue to avoid assuming the role of mediator.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA394381
Entities
People
- Robert A. Manning
- Ronald N. Montaperto
Organizations
- National Defense University