During the first Donald Trump presidency, the United States and China entered more squarely into an age of strategic competition. The Trump I administration is often considered the most Taiwan-friendly US administration in modern times, but as the Trump II administration takes shape, the strategic context in the Western Pacific has evolved, raising questions about what approach Washington will now take in its relations with Taiwan. In particular, China has emerged as a more formidable competitor and is flexing ever more its muscle around Taiwan, increasing the size, scope and frequency of military exercises designed to simulate a blockade or full-scale invasion of the island. 

The consequences of war in the Taiwan Strait would be devastating for the region and the world, underscoring the importance of managing relations between the US, China and Taiwan. What can be expected from the Trump II administration in this regard? How might Taiwan manage relations with its all-important American partner? Does Europe have a role to play?

Speakers:

• Dr. Che-Chuan Lee, Research Fellow, Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), Taïwan
• Dr. Neysun A. Mahboubi, Director, Penn Project on the Future of U.S.-China Relations, University of Pennsylvania, United States

Discussant:

• Ms. Maïlys Pène-Lassus, Reporter, Nikkei Asia, Paris

Chair :

• Dr. Marc Julienne, Director, Center for Asian Studies, Ifri