China's Influence Tactics on Taiwan: Insights from Shen You-chung
China's Influence Tactics on Taiwan: Insights from Shen You-chung
In a recent forum hosted by the Taiwan Public Welfare group, Shen You-chung, Deputy Minister of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, discussed China's strategies to influence Taiwan. He explained that China uses its "united front" strategy to manipulate cross-strait interactions for its benefit.
Political Influence and Local Elections
Shen highlighted that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been manipulating local elections in Taiwan, as seen in 2018 and 2022, to hinder Taiwan's administration. The CCP's influence extends to Taiwanese political parties, intertwining cross-strait interactions with domestic politics.
Kinmen County and "One Country, Two Systems"
Shen pointed out Kinmen County as a target for Beijing's strategy to increase its presence in local governments. The CCP is promoting its "one country, two systems" model, especially after its credibility was questioned in Hong Kong. Beijing is considering allowing Kinmen residents to buy real estate in Xiamen and gain voting rights, aiming to create a de facto "one country, two systems" situation.
Outreach to Taiwanese Youth
Beijing is also reaching out to Taiwanese youth, offering benefits to start businesses in China. Shen warned that these offers might conceal ulterior motives, as China's high unemployment rates suggest a plan to push Taiwanese out of the market through aggressive pricing.
Religious Influence
Despite China's official atheism, the CCP uses religion for its "united front" efforts. China claims that all Matsu temples in Taiwan trace their origins to Meizhou, China, and aims to certify these temples to prove authenticity.
MAC's Stance
The Mainland Affairs Council emphasized that cross-strait exchanges should follow Taiwan's approved actions, avoid promoting political views that undermine Taiwan, and restrict Chinese officials from media interviews during visits.
Doubts Revealed
Shen You-chung
Shen You-chung is a government official in Taiwan. He is the Deputy Minister of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, which deals with issues related to China.
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council
This is a part of Taiwan's government that focuses on managing and discussing matters related to China. They work on policies and strategies to handle relations with China.
United front strategy
This is a tactic used by China to influence other countries or regions. It involves working with different groups to achieve political goals, like trying to gain more control or influence over Taiwan.
One country, two systems
This is a policy proposed by China where a region can have its own government and laws but is still considered part of China. It was used in Hong Kong and is suggested for Taiwan, but many in Taiwan do not agree with it.
Kinmen County
Kinmen County is a group of islands that are part of Taiwan. They are very close to the mainland of China, which makes them important in discussions about Taiwan and China relations.
Cross-strait exchanges
These are interactions and communications between Taiwan and China. They can include trade, travel, and cultural exchanges, but Taiwan wants these to follow certain rules to protect its interests.
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