ABSTRACT
Before the era of Western colonialism, Taiwan engaged in interactions with several neighboring countries, though one would not equate these contacts to diplomatic relations that were being practiced in the West at the time. Some military leaders contended Taiwan was not defensible in view of China's rapid military buildup. Taiwan's relations with China worsened as Beijing came to see Chen Shui-bian as a determined proponent of independence. The local population of Taiwan had little or no experience in making—or in even influencing—diplomatic decisions; thus, it would be conjecture to suggest to what extent public opinion supported the main tenets of Taiwan's foreign policy. Taiwan "lost" the China seat in the United Nations and, with it, membership in that important world body. Henceforth, Taiwan could no longer claim to represent the Chinese people in international affairs. The influence of domestic politics on Taiwan's foreign policy has increased markedly over the years for a host of reasons.
