Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

Time to bolster Taipei-Manila ties

Huynh Tam Sang

In congratulating president-elect William Lai (賴清德) with his election victory on X, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr risked an even more aggravated relationship between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Marcos’ congratulatory message was followed by his vow to “[strengthen] mutual interests, [foster] peace” with Taiwan, indicating his resolve to forge ties with the nation despite mounting pressure from Beijing.

Marcos’ diplomatic backing of Taiwan prompted China to swiftly summon and rebuke the Philippine ambassador. Chinese spokesperson Mao Ning (毛寧) went so far as to warn the Philippines “not to play with fire” on the Taiwan issue, which Chinese leaders have consistently asserted as China’s “internal affair.” As a tactic, China often uses “wolf-warrior diplomacy” to drive a wedge between Taiwan and the democratic nation’s like-minded partners, making it harder for them to back Taipei.

India’s story of tech innovation

Manharsinh Laxmanbhai Yadav

India celebrates its 75th Republic Day today. It is on this date in 1950 that the constitution of India came into effect. Projected by the World Economic Forum to reach a US$10 trillion economy by the end of this decade, India’s journey is characterized by steady growth, technological innovation and resilience. This growth story is not just about economic figures; it represents a civilization’s indomitable spirit to leapfrog into the future, leveraging the power of technology.

In the landscape of global economic uncertainties, India’s economy stands out as a beacon of resilience and growth. Registering a 7.2 percent growth rate, India was the fastest growing major economy in fiscal year 2022-2023. With a demographic dividend providing tailwinds, India has significant potential of further growth in areas such as infrastructure, industrialization and energy consumption. India’s economic narrative, in contrast to the sluggish growth and high inflation affecting many economies globally, highlights its unique position as a rapidly developing nation with vast potential for further growth and development. The nation’s strategic focus on digital infrastructure, public investment and robust domestic demand positions it not just as a growing economic powerhouse, but also as a key player in shaping the future of the global economy.

Xi’s best bet is friendliness

Taipei Times Editorial

Two days after Taiwanese ignored Beijing’s threats and elected William Lai (賴清德) as president, Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平) in an article published in the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) Qiushi journal on Monday last week urged the party to do a better job winning the hearts of Taiwanese.

Xi outlined a strategy for the country’s “united front” tactics, saying that China must “develop and strengthen the patriotic, pro-unification forces in Taiwan, oppose the separatist acts of Taiwan independence and promote the complete reunification of the motherland.” He urged the CCP to redouble efforts to “stoke national awareness and patriotism” among Taiwanese.

Myanmar NUG upholds ‘one China’

Antonio Graceffo

Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG), the democratic government-in-exile, on Jan. 2 issued its official position on China, pledging to “safeguard Chinese economic investments and other socioeconomic enterprises within Myanmar.” The document also stated that “the ‘one China principle’ will be upheld and supported in a sustained manner.”

Conflict in Myanmar has persisted for more than 70 years, during which the nation has been subjected to successive repressive military regimes, except for a brief period of democracy from 2015 until a military coup in February 2021. Following the coup, the intensity of the fighting has increased, with the emergence of new ethnic resistance armies and existing ones forming alliances. These groups are now executing coordinated strikes against the military. There is a glimmer of hope for the first time that the military might finally fall, and China is a significant stakeholder in the outcome of the war.

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