TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s “value diplomacy” reflects a broader competition between democratic and authoritarian systems, Taiwan Thinktank China Research Center Director Wu Se-chih (吳瑟致) said Friday.
Wu said Taiwan’s approach highlights clear differences with China’s diplomacy. He said the contrast lies not only in strategy but also in how each system is governed and the values they promote, CNA reported.
He said Taiwan’s diplomacy focuses on helping partner countries build their own capabilities. Taiwan has long provided medical services, agricultural support, vocational training, and small business assistance in Africa.
This approach emphasizes local empowerment and long-term development. While Taiwan’s resources are more limited, it helps build trust and stable partnerships over time, per UDN.
Wu said Taiwan does not attach political conditions to its cooperation. By contrast, China often links economic incentives to political demands, such as support for the “one China” principle, Liberty Times reported.
He said China’s Belt and Road Initiative funds infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and ports worldwide. While it promotes trade and development, some countries have faced rising debt and increased dependence on China, per Economic Daily News.
Wu said Taiwan’s diplomacy is also rooted in shared democratic values. He said more countries, especially in Europe, have strengthened ties with Taiwan in recent years despite lacking formal diplomatic relations.
He pointed to the COVID-19 pandemic as an example of the contrast between the two systems. Taiwan provided medical supplies globally, while China used pressure in vaccine distribution and restricted Taiwan’s access to international health organizations, SETN reported.
Wu said the competition between Taiwan and China ultimately reflects different systems of governance. He said China’s approach may bring short-term economic gains but can also lead to long-term risks such as corruption, inequality, and political instability.
Wu also noted that Taiwan’s only African ally, Eswatini, remains under pressure from China. China has sought to expand its influence through economic measures and diplomatic pressure.
Wu said President Lai Ching-te’s (賴清德) upcoming visit to Eswatini will highlight Taiwan’s commitment to its allies. The visit will also show how Taiwan promotes cooperation based on mutual support and shared values, per Nownews.
