[Opinion] Dealing with China

Taiwanese Premier Yu Shyi-kun made an unofficial visit to Okinawa, the Japanese island at the far south of the nation, on August 25. Taiwan explains that “it was due to an emergency landing because of the sudden typhoon on his way home from a round of visits in South America.” Though the two nations have long suspended diplomatic ties, he stayed for five to six hours in Okinawa and received a “hospitable reception fit for a state guest.” Okinawa’s vice governor came to the airport to ascertain there were no inconveniences. The Chinese government objected to such treatment, relaying “a message of grave concerns” to Japan. There are many in Tokyo’s diplomatic circles that wonder if the situation was truly urgent enough to warrant an emergency landing when Taiwan and Okinawa are so close.

The issue of Taiwan is a vulnerable point in China’s diplomacy. If a country joined in diplomatic ties with China shows signs of joining ties with Taiwan, the nation deploys all means in adding pressure to prevent this from happening. Nonetheless, Japan uses the “Taiwanese card” every now and then, while fully expecting China’s objections. For example, 90 parliamentary and local legislators of the leading Liberal Democratic Party visited Taiwan recently. The Japanese government once expressed its approval for a visit by former Taiwanese president Lee Teng-hui, but withdrew it cautiously as China flared up in anger.

Though Japan may be able to act that way because of its national strength, it is worthy to note the way Singapore, not a very strong nation in Southeast Asia, deals with China. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong held a meeting with President Chen Shui-bian in Taiwan when he was Deputy Prime Minister in July. Though China canceled the “Singapore Trade Fair” in retaliation, Singapore’s response was calm as if this was no less than what it had expected. The nation left a deep impression on international society by appeasing China by asserting it “respected the one China policy,” but also stressing independence of its foreign policies.

An executive of a Japanese company explained that “Singapore’s equal distance diplomacy was a survival strategy selected to prevent itself from being incorporated in China’s economy, as it is a nation that must compete with Hong Kong and Shanghai.” Korea is on the defensive when its comes to not only issues regarding North Korean defectors and nuclear issues, but also issues on Taiwan to which China is very sensitive. Though Korea’s view on China has changed due to the controversy surrounding the history of Goguryeo, the nation avoids comments or actions that could get on China’s nerves. Of course, it is wrong to take an emotional approach to foreign affairs to gain catharsis. However, should we not learn Singapore’s’ bold spirit in foreign affairs that does not cower in the face of size?

Park Won-jae, Tokyo Correspondent, parkwj@donga.com