Australian Institute of International Affairs: For those with an interest in the Indo-Pacific, the political uncertainty and tension surrounding Taiwan – officially the Republic of China – is cause for constant debate. While Cross-Strait relations and the competing narratives between the mainland China and Taiwan continue to burgeon, analysts and observers describe the issues surrounding Taiwan, chiefly its political independence and national security as becoming increasingly “hotter”.
President Tsai-Ing Wen and her ruling Democratic Progressive Party have openly opposed the militarisation of the island’s surrounds and have called upon allies, like Australia and the US, to ensure Taiwan’s sovereignty remains intact.
As a neighbouring democracy, what exactly is Australia’s Taiwan policy? How is it managed alongside chilling relations with China? As tensions escalate, what do experts see as the next flashpoint in the region?
AIIA Victoria invites you to join a panel discussion with Dr Mark Harrison, Natasha Kassam, Dr Alan Dupont and moderated by Rowan Callick OBE FAIIA.