Integrated Country Strategy: Enhancing U.S.-Taiwan (Republic of China) Relations

Global, historical, political, and economic factors demand that we pay close attention to the diplomatic ties between the United States and Taiwan. The recent more aggressive foreign policy of the People's Republic of China (PRC) directed at unification with Taiwan makes consideration of the implications increasingly important. This is especially so, given that Taiwan, despite its significant contributions to global affairs and its democratic achievements, has faced unique challenges in securing formal diplomatic recognition from major world powers. My thesis addresses this issue by employing the innovative concept of an integrated country strategy. An integrated country strategy, from the perspective of the U.S. Department of State, is a holistic plan that combines diplomatic, economic, and development efforts to achieve strategic objectives in a specific country or region. For this thesis, the specific mission goals of the integrated country strategy will be related to economics, people-to-people diplomacy, and bolstering Taiwan's international presence. Each mission goal will be covered in their own chapter. The aim is to empower broader diplomatic engagement while deterring potential Chinese intervention in Taiwan and maintaining the status quo of the one China policy. Analyzing the potential benefits of this integrated country strategy provides an opportunity to address the challenges of recognizing the One China status quo while raising the cost for President Xi Jinping of unification by force of coercion. The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) emerges as a central player in this narrative, tasked with supporting Taiwan's self-defense, fostering cooperation, and safeguarding U.S. interests. AIT operates within a unique policy and legal framework, reflecting the nuanced diplomatic landscape surrounding Taiwan. At its core, my thesis underscores the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law that bind the United States and Taiwan together. By exploring strategic cooperation, diplomatic initiatives, and resilience-building efforts, my thesis aims to offer insights into how the United States can bolster Taiwan's global standing while navigating complex geopolitical challenges. Mission Statement: To secure U.S. foreign interests by advancing diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations with Taiwan, thereby promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region. To secure U.S. foreign interests through U.S.-Taiwan ties by advancing diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations, thus promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.