Role of External Actors in the Indo-Pacific: Case of Cross-Strait Relations

Cross-Strait relations between China and Taiwan have traditionally been viewed as primarily domestic issues. However, it has evolved into an international one involving major and regional powers over the years. The chapter examines how regional groupings, primarily the Quad, perceive and address the cross-strait issue. The reason for choosing Quad is multifold. First, Quad is considered a group of democratic countries that have recently stated support for peace and partnerships in the Taiwan Strait. Certain actors see it as a group supporting democratic Taiwan versus communist China on the cross-strait issue. In this case, Quad’s statements seemed to favor democratic Taiwan over a communist China. Second, the Quad countries have deeper interests on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The Quad nations depend on China for their deeper mutual trade, as it is their largest trading partner, whereas Taiwan is crucial for its semiconductor prowess. Taiwan produces some of the world’s most advanced chips. Chinese leaders have repeatedly stated that the Cross-Strait issue is a domestic issue. The proposed chapter argues that the involvement of other countries and regional groupings is unavoidable in the potential Cross-strait conflict, as opposed to China’s attempt. By analysing the public statements of the Quad group and its member countries, the chapter will examine how external actors are involved in the Taiwan Strait issue, which is considered one of the world’s potential flashpoints.