Taiwan’s President is worried by subtle changes in language coming out of Washington. On the surface “muscular statements” from the new Biden administration indicate no downgrade in US/Taiwan links to please China. But confused signals are emerging.
US statements avoided calling Tsai Ingwen “President” and instead of referring to the “President” or the “Government”, the US referred to “Taiwan’s democratically elected representatives”. This is a downgrade.
The State Dept has not said if it would maintain Trump’s stance and Taiwan is nervous and remains vigilant – analysing every move by the new Biden administration.
Trump went too far in signalling the possible end of the One China policy but the pullback by Biden/Blinken will be examined carefully in case there is a sign of diminution of support for Taiwan.
In the end, Trump wanted to confront China. Biden may just want to compete with China. Big difference.
