ABSTRACT

Other than the US role, Taiwan stood out as the other primary factor leading to the shift in cross-strait relations during Chen Shui-bian’s second year in office. As discussed in chapter six, pro-Taiwan statements and actions on behalf of the Bush administration served to strengthen the confidence of Chen’s administration. Meanwhile, developments within Taiwan also enhanced President Chen’s ability to control the political situation, redoubling his confidence, and prompting him to boldly edge closer to “one country on each side”. At the same time, however, practical needs within Taiwan expanded cross-strait economic and cultural exchanges substantially, resulting in a polarized situation best described as “politically frosty, economically sizzling; cold government, but enthusiastic private sector.”