The Strategic Significance of Taiwan
A presentation by former American Institute in Taiwan Director Dr. William Stanton
On October 11, 2013, Dr. William A. Stanton, the former Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (August 28, 2009 to August 1, 2012), was invited by the Thinking Taiwan Foundation to give a presentation on the subject of “The Strategic Significance of Taiwan”. Dr. Stanton, a career diplomat, had served the US State Department since 1978. While he gave a disclaimer that the presentation is based upon his own opinion, and does not represent the view of the United States or the current American Institute in Taiwan, his experience and knowledge speak for itself.
Dr. Stanton states the people of Taiwan often underestimate themselves and their significance in the world stage. While Taiwan appears to be a small island, the size of its population and its economy are significant in the world economy. At the very least, Taiwan should act as a world middle power. The importance of Taiwan, however, goes beyond its economy. For China, the importance of Taiwan goes beyond the usual rhetoric of nationalism, it is strategic. Taiwan’s location prevents China from claiming complete control over the South China Sea and expand its naval power east-ward to compete against the United States. If China were to gain control of Taiwan, major ship lanes that go in and out of the South China Sea will be dominated by China, and major US allies such as Japan will be cut off from trades and supplies. These both have a detrimental effect on the U.S. economy, trade, and jobs here at home, and on U.S. security in the Pacific.
Watch the video of Dr. Stanton’s presentation below.
Please clap to let us know if you like this article, and make sure you follow American Citizens for Taiwan to be notified of future articles!
American Citizens for Taiwan Foundation articles, the Congressional contact tool, and Congressional/Voter Guide remain free, but take an enormous amount of time to research, write, and post — and thousands of dollars to sustain each year.
If you find any value in our work please consider becoming a Friend of ACT with a recurring monthly donation of your choosing, between a cup of tea and a good dinner is suggested, to help ACT continue to educate Americans about Taiwan and to press our government to strengthen U.S.-Taiwan relations and be fully supportive of Taiwan’s right to self-determination.
MONTHLY DONATION — START NOW
You can also become a Friend of ACT with a single donation in any amount:
ONE-TIME DONATION — GIVE NOW
