In a move shrouded in secrecy, Bi-khim Hsiao, Taiwan's vice president-elect, has slipped into Washington this week for what appears to be a discreet agenda. Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that Hsiao, who previously served as Taipei's representative to the U.S., is undertaking a private journey to collect personal belongings left behind during her campaign stint with President-elect Lai Ching-te. However, insiders suggest she also plans to engage with members of the administration to discuss the new Taipei government's strategies. Following her Washington visit, Hsiao intends to embark on a tour of several European capitals, still in a private capacity.
Details regarding Hsiao's meetings in Washington remain veiled, with both Taiwan's Foreign Ministry and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party withholding information. Even the de facto U.S. Embassy in Taipei, the American Institute in Taiwan, has refrained from commenting on the matter.
The delicate nature of interactions between Taiwanese and U.S. officials stems from China's hawkish gaze. The Communist leadership in Beijing, adamant about its territorial claim over Taiwan, monitors such engagements closely. President Xi Jinping has reiterated China's resolve to assert control over Taiwan, even by force if deemed necessary. Hence, officials in both Washington and Taipei are treading cautiously to avoid provoking Beijing, especially amidst escalating tensions in the region.
Against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas debacle, the Biden administration remains keen on averting any escalation across the Taiwan Strait. Similarly, Chinese leaders are striving to maintain stable relations with the U.S. amid economic challenges at home.
Bonnie Glaser, Managing Director of the Indo-Pacific Program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, emphasized the collective effort to sustain stability in the region. However, despite attempts to keep Hsiao's visit discreet, Chinese analysts anticipate displeasure from Beijing, particularly concerning President-elect Lai's perceived pro-independence stance.
While Lai has pledged to uphold the status quo established by outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen, concerns linger among U.S. officials regarding his potential to ruffle feathers in Beijing. Hsiao's role is seen as pivotal in managing Taiwan's delicate relationship with the U.S., given her experience and expertise.
In a notable shift, many countries are showing a willingness to engage with Taipei, brushing aside longstanding fears of reprisal from China. With Beijing's diplomatic relationships under strain and its pressure tactics on Taipei intensifying, nations across Europe and Asia have extended their support. Even as they congratulate Taiwan on its presidential election outcome, policymakers recognize the implications of conflict in the Taiwan Strait on global economies.
Philippe Le Corre, Senior Fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, highlighted Europe's growing realization of the economic repercussions of turmoil in the region. Despite Beijing's efforts to sway diplomatic allegiances away from Taipei, Le Corre notes a rise in unofficial diplomatic engagements with Taiwan.
As Taiwan's geopolitical significance continues to draw attention on the world stage, Hsiao's stealthy visit underscores the complexities of navigating international relations in the shadow of China's assertiveness. While maintaining a delicate balance, Taiwan seeks to strengthen its ties with allies while preserving stability in the region.
