Sunday, July 25, 2004

Taiwan

I have wanted to write about this topic since last week, but the big hooha over the Tanglin Alumni Band sorta made it slipped my mind. I was just talking to this friend from China so it sorta inspired me to write about it again. Damn stressed can? Chatting with someone from China about such a touchy topic!

So why is DPM Lee's visit to Taiwan sparkling off such a big fuss in China?

The following is strictly my own opinion and it doesn't represent any opinions/thoughts of any organization.

I think the significance of this fuss made is mainly because China recognizes the political power of Singapore. Singapore might be just a little dot on the world atlas but she's definitely one bright flashing red dot which captures the attention of many nations.

China is also very aware of the fact that Singapore is a firm trade partner of the United States. Being a former British colony, Singapore still holds strong relationship with them. Make no mistake, Singapore might be small, but she is powerful enough to make others sit up and notice her. The fuss being made already demonstrates this point strongly.

In other words, China is afraid the private visit of DPM Lee is disguised to help them boost their push for independence. Furthermore, DPM Lee is slated to become the next Prime Minister of Singapore, so it evidently caused a big commotion. But think about it, what does Singapore stand to gain if Taiwan is declared an independent country?

Singapore currently has vast investments in China. Just look at the Suzhou Industrial Park. It's called a Mini-Singapore or something over in China. Millions of dollars had been pumped into investments all over China. Why? Because our dear SM Lee recognize the growing power of China too. She's not called an emerging dragon for nothing, ok?

I'm not very sure about the level of investment in Taiwan, but Singapore and Taiwan has a strong military connection. Thousand of our troops are sent to Taiwan every year to train. So as Reader can see, Singapore is quite stuck in between. Finance stability and defense stability, which is more important?

Both are. It's as simple as that. But if any war strikes out, the best option perhaps to is withdraw all troops currently based in Taiwan. Currently, I think it's hard to analyze which side the world will stand on in the event of a power struggle. Will we see a situation like East Timor? Or will the Yi Guo Liang Zhi (One country, two rules) policy be implemented in Taiwan?

Whatever it is, I'm on nobody's side. Isn't peace better for everyone?

*a la Miss Universe in bimbo voice* World peace!

fjozn at 5:33 PM