英文摘要 |
Since the introduction of Taiwan's 'Southward Policy' in 1993, the last decade witnessed the development of intensive relations between Taiwan and Southeast Asian states. The road of implementing such a policy was zigzag, however, because of the changes of regional and international environments, the uncertainty of cross-strait relations and the impact of domestic power shift. Under the pressure of 'magnetic effects' that makes capital flows to China, Taiwan encouraged investment to Southeast Asia, raised 'Southward' thinking to cool down this 'Westward' fever. The 1997 financial crisis became the key conjuncture of this policy while the preliminary objects had been achieved. After the crisis, 'Southward Policy' seems to be evaporated. It is hardly probable that one can assert this policy has been terminated, just temporarily suspended, or still in operation. The 2000 presidential election reshaped Taiwan's domestic power structure as well as the cross-strait relations basis. The newly established leadership is, from China's perspectives, reluctant in promoting cross-strait interaction and tendentious towards pursuing Taiwan independence. When long stagnate of mutual dialogue soars the tension between Taiwan and China, Taiwan government reiterated the importance of 'Southward Policy' and reevaluated its strategies and effects. This article argues that, as an extended policy of Taiwan's foreign development, 'Southward Policy' is a long-term strategy that never been bypassed no matter in the financial crisis or in the boom-and-bust of the world economy. Besides, at current stage, Taiwan is on her way to 'restarting' this policy, Vietnam-Taiwan relations after the financial crisis has demonstrated the evidence and necessity of Taiwan's endeavours in continuing this policy. |