Vice President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan to Present a More Muted Persona During US Visit
Crucial Relations with the US and China in Focus
Chinese Military Actions and Escalation Risks
Vice President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan, a leading candidate in Taiwan’s presidential race, is set to visit the United States starting Saturday. This visit, though low-key, will be closely watched by Taiwan, China, and the US for insights into his approach to relations with these countries if he becomes president. Additionally, it is likely to prompt an escalation of Chinese military flights and naval maneuvers near Taiwan, shedding light on the potential risks of real conflict over its future.
Taiwanese officials and scholars expect Vice President Lai to exhibit restraint rather than delivering rousing speeches during his visit. As a former pugnacious opponent of Beijing’s claims over Taiwan, Lai is now seeking to portray himself as a steady and reliable candidate who can maintain stable relations with the US and China. His visit aims to reassure the United States and its allies of his intentions, emphasizing that he is not a troublemaker.
While in the US, Lai has no plans for major speeches or meetings with prominent members of Congress. He will, however, meet with members of the Taiwanese-American community and offer remarks at a dinner in New York. His travel plans reflect the more modest protocol typically associated with being a vice president but also align with his political goals.
Lai’s trip is likely to incite a show of military force by China near Taiwan. The Chinese government seeks to curtail Taiwan’s international contacts and strongly opposes the Democratic Progressive Party’s position on Taiwan’s separateness from China. Any military exercises conducted by China will aim to increase pressure on Taiwan and assert its dominance.
Despite the delicate nature of Lai’s visit, it is essential for the US to maintain its partnership with Taiwan in order to deter Chinese aggression and maintain stability in the region. The US aims to avoid any major shifts in the status quo and maintain ambiguous relations with both Beijing and Taipei.
As Lai competes for the presidency, there is some concern about the pending change in Taiwan’s leadership. The transition is viewed as fraught with uncertainty and risk, regardless of which candidate wins the election. The US will work with whoever is elected president, but the transition period will require careful management to ensure stability and prevent any unforeseen complications.
