On 23 June, Premier of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lin Chuan was interviewed by Nikkei Asian Review, a Tokyo-based news outlet. During the exclusive interview, Premier Lin spoke on an extensive range of issues, such as achievements of the Tsai administration, trade agreements, and Taiwan’s relationships with Japan, China, and the United States. He stated Taiwan still utilises trade as its primary driving force for economic development, so opening up trade to the outside world is a must. He also reaffirmed the government’s desire to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
Since the first round of TPP talks in March 2010, the Taiwan government has consistently voiced interest in joining the pact. In the interview, Premier Lin reaffirmed the government's commitment to joining TPP and bringing the trade agreement into force for the benefit of the fastest-growing region of the world economy. Taiwan also welcomes Japan’s enhanced role in driving regional economic integration after the U.S. pulled out of the agreement in January, he added.
Citing the trade liberalisation that would come about through Taiwan’s participation in the pact, Premier Lin maintained Taiwan’s accession would be beneficial to all involved. Taiwan also hopes that the TPP’s high standards in terms of environmental protection and labour-related matters will bring about fairer trade, ensuring that participants do not generate pollution, or rely on cheap labour to enhance their competitiveness, he said.
However, TPP membership is not the only avenue the government is pursuing in strengthening Taiwan’s position in the global economy. According to Premier Lin, forging closer trade ties with the EU, Southeast Asia, the US, and mainland China are all top priorities going forward.
As for cross-Strait relations, Premier Lin said the government is open to continuing negotiations with the authorities in mainland China, so as to create a basis for expanded dialogue between the two sides. He emphasized that the government hopes to maintain excellent economic relations with mainland China and continue the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and any further measures that reduce trade barriers.
However, Premier Lin also stated Beijing has been unwise in its attempts to influence Taiwan’s diplomatic allies using economic and political power. He said it is crucial Taiwan shows the world that it will not bow to such pressure despite the loss of diplomatic partners and the threat of more losses, adding that only when everyone understands Taiwan’s mainstream opinion will not waver in the face of mainland China’s relentless pressure will Beijing’s tactics cease.
