In an exclusive revelation, confidential diplomatic documents obtained by a Taiwanese diplomat shed light on a significant shift in Taiwan's foreign policy strategy towards the United States. The diplomat, who sought to remain anonymous, drew parallels between their aspirations and those of famed whistleblower Edward Snowden, aiming to uncover hidden truths about Taiwan's political activities that have largely remained concealed from the international community. However, the diplomat's efforts to collaborate with journalists and expose these revelations were met with challenges stemming from political climate and cultural disparities.
The disclosed documents, originating from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO), Taiwan's de facto embassy in the US, paint a striking portrait of Taiwan's diplomatic approach. A central theme emerges - the country's diplomatic priorities have shifted from securing international support through conventional lobbying to employing more assertive and covert tactics in dealing with US politicians, particularly those perceived as friendly with China.
A Provocative Diplomatic Strategy
These documents detail a directive from MOFA to TECO offices to adopt "provocative and forceful measures" in relation to US politicians and officials perceived to have pro-China leanings. This shift encompasses tactics ranging from discreet pressure to overt verbal attacks on officials like New York Mayor Eric Adams and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, labeled internally as pro-China figures. The documents highlight the intention to distance these officials from China and influence their stance towards Taiwan.
Covert Influence on US Domestic Politics
Another revelation pertains to Taiwan's covert actions aimed at influencing US domestic politics. The documents show how TECRO and TECO offices are tasked with amplifying interactions between US politicians and China, casting them as pro-China and tarnishing their reputations. The strategy involves skillfully utilizing both mainstream US media and Chinese media within the politicians' districts to criticize their China-friendly stance. The diplomat raises ethical concerns about this approach, as it pushes the boundaries of diplomatic norms and potentially interferes with US politics.
Surveillance of Chinese Americans
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the revelations pertains to the surveillance and political persecution of Chinese Americans. The documents detail MOFA's directive to enhance intelligence sharing with US law enforcement agencies, leading to monitoring of Chinese American officials and community groups. While some activities are legally protected, Taiwan's plan involves exploiting vague US laws to provoke law enforcement actions against these individuals, despite acknowledging that their actions do not contravene US laws.
Impact on US Politicians' Reputation
The documents also reveal a successful case of Taiwan's strategy in action. During the visit of Utah Senate leader Stuart Adams and House Speaker Brad Wilson to Taiwan, TECO in San Francisco leveraged media reports to pressure them and elicit a supportive statement for Taiwan. This suggests Taiwan's influence over US local legislatures and highlights a new diplomatic approach aimed at altering politicians' stances through reputation management.
Implications and Future Prospects
The diplomat's revelations underscore a dramatic departure from Taiwan's traditional diplomatic strategy, potentially signaling a more aggressive approach towards securing international support. The disclosures raise ethical questions about the boundaries of diplomatic conduct and interference in US domestic politics.
As this information surfaces, questions loom about the veracity of these claims and their potential consequences. It remains to be seen whether other colleagues within the diplomatic circles will come forward to corroborate these allegations or challenge them with alternative evidence. In a world driven by transparency and accountability, these revelations serve as a reminder of the complex web of international relations and the subtle strategies employed behind closed doors.