Taiwan-China Relations

Analysis: How Might China Disrupt Taiwan's Local Elections?

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By Luffy Li/Reece Ayers

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Recent media reports suggest that Taiwan has been a key topic of discussion at China’s annual Beidaihe summer meeting. We speak with Soochow University Associate Professor Chen Fang-yu, who urges the public to stay vigilant against potential Chinese interference ahead of November’s local elections.

China’s Four-Part Taiwan Strategy

REPORTER:  
Taiwan is urging the public to stay vigilant against Chinese interference, after media reports suggested Beijing plans to support pro-China forces in upcoming local elections.

First, Beijing plans to use purchases and trade interests to court the US while isolating Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan.

Second, Beijing would “make every effort to block a new phase of arms sales to Taiwan to avoid disrupting the current strategic layout.

Third, China plans to leverage the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East to create strategic opportunities in which the US loses ground while China gains relative advantage.

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China’s Taiwan Election Approach

REPORTER:  
China's leadership has said they'll strengthen control of Taiwan and support pro-China forces during upcoming elections, according to local media reports.

First, Beijing plans to use purchases and trade interests to court the US while isolating Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan.

Second, Beijing would “make every effort to block a new phase of arms sales to Taiwan to avoid disrupting the current strategic layout.

Third, China plans to leverage the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East to create strategic opportunities in which the US loses ground while China gains relative advantage.