ABSTRACT
Backed by a vibrant economy and increasingly internationalized political and social atmosphere, Taiwan in years has emerged as an increasingly important actor in world affairs. The mixed results and complex variables affecting Taiwan's greater role in world affairs may mask some basic factors that appear to argue on balance for optimism when assessing Taiwan's international prospects. These include a generally effective and attractive political, economic, and social situation in Taiwan. The wider range of political forces influencing government decision makers in Taipei contains those who advocate extreme positions on self determination and independence that could jeopardize Taiwan-mainland stability and promote conflict across the Taiwan Strait. The prospect of economic benefits through trade and investment ties with Taiwan encouraged several countries to expand their unofficial ties with Taipei. Taiwan's achievements in this area represented an impressive comeback after the heavy diplomatic losses to the People's Republic of China in the 1970s.
