Taiwan will send Stan Shih, founder of Acer, to the Apec leaders’ summit in Shenzhen next week. The move comes as the island seeks to assert its presence in international forums. Taiwan has been a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum since 1991, operating under the name “Chinese Taipei.” However, its leaders have traditionally not attended the summit due to political sensitivities.
Beijing has consistently opposed Taiwan’s participation in such forums, citing the One-China principle. This principle asserts that Taiwan is part of China, a stance that complicates Taiwan’s diplomatic engagement. The Apec summit, held in Shenzhen, will include leaders from 21 member economies. Taiwan’s participation is seen as a step toward greater international recognition.
The decision to send Stan Shih, a prominent business figure, reflects a strategic shift. His attendance may aim to leverage economic ties and promote Taiwan’s interests. The Taiwanese government has called for “equal footing” in the summit, emphasizing dignity for its delegation.
This move follows recent controversies, including a dispute over entry declarations for mainland Chinese tourists. Taiwan’s tourism sector has faced backlash after a mainland visitor was asked to sign a political statement. Such incidents highlight the growing tensions between Taiwan and mainland China.
The Apec summit represents a critical moment for Taiwan’s diplomatic efforts. The island seeks to balance its autonomy with the constraints imposed by Beijing. The outcome of the summit could influence future interactions between Taiwan and its neighbors.
