TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Canadian scholar George S. Takach has published “Inspired by Taiwan,” a new book arguing that support for Taiwan is important to protecting global democracy, CNA reported Monday.
Takach, a senior fellow at the University of Toronto, worked as a technology lawyer for nearly 40 years. He initially planned to write about democracy more broadly, but after learning more about Taiwan and visiting in 2023, he decided to focus the book on Taiwan.
He said Taiwan’s open and active civil society left a strong impression on him. He said the trip helped him see Taiwan as more than a security issue in Asia.
Takach said Taiwan is a major technology center and produces more than 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors. He said Taiwan also has a strong democratic system, an open society, and respect for ethnic diversity, religious freedom, and gender equality.
He said Taiwan’s education system, health care, and political resilience also deserve more international attention. He said he hopes Canadians will understand that Taiwan is both strategically important and a symbol of democracy.
Takach said Canada can rebuild trade ties with China while maintaining close relations with Taiwan. He said Canadian naval vessels should continue sailing through the Taiwan Strait and Canadian lawmakers should continue visiting Taiwan, even if Beijing objects.
Takach also warned Canadians against relying on advanced technology products and systems made by or connected to Chinese companies. He said such products could expose users’ personal data and movements to Chinese authorities.
Angel Liu (劉立欣), director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Vancouver, said Takach visited Taiwan at his own expense and spoke with many people during his trip. Liu said the book could help more readers understand Taiwan’s open society and why it matters.
Liu said China often uses trade as a political tool against democratic countries. She said Canada and Taiwan should continue building economic ties based on shared values and support each other as democratic partners.
