Decryption
Article reserved for subscribers
By multiplying the declarations and lies about military aid to the island and about the semiconductor industry, the president-elect appears to be redefining the framework of relations between Taipei and Washington to put pressure on both Taiwanese and Chinese.
THE “Heartiest congratulations” of use were quickly addressed by the Taiwanese president to Donald Trump. Shortly after the Republican's victory in the White House, William Lai said he was convinced that the “Taiwan’s long-standing partnership with the United States, built on shared values and interests, will continue to serve as a cornerstone for regional stability and lead to greater prosperity for us all.” A simple reminder which nevertheless has the value of a wish, even an ardent desire, that nothing will derail the relationship between Taipei and Washington.
But the return of the authoritarian troublemaker Trump at the head of America brings its share of uncertainties and concerns for the future of the archipelago, against a backdrop of growing threats from the Xi Jinping regime against Taiwanese democracy . And this even if the billionaire attracted the favor of Taiwan during his first mandate by taking President Tsai Ing-wen on the phone – a breach of official protocol –, by facilitating arms sales, by sending to Taipei members of his government
