The Implications of APEC Participation to the Cross-Straits Relations

To participate in APEC for both sides of the Taiwan Straits may generate several impacts to the cross-straits relations, which are currently characterized by a political stalemate but with an expanding economic interaction. First of all, the pragmatism shown in the development of APEC contains a rich lesson for both sides to learn in developing their mutual relations. Secondly, when providing an overt channel for the two politically isolated partners to contact with each other, APEC will contribute to be nigh development of the cross-straits relations. Thirdly, through APEC and its related activities, both sides can cantact frequently with top financial and economic leaders from other countries. This is especially important to Taiwan when the contacts usually lead to the improvement of its bilateral relations with these countries, for instance, to sign a treaty on investment protection or taxation with them. Fourthly, taking advantage of the opportunities given by APEC, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan can arrange a stable relationship among themselves. This is particularly important for these three societies to maintain a good mutual relation after 1997. Last but not the least, any multilateral game rule formulated by APEC can go beyond the political stalemate and apply to tackle the cross-straits relations properly.