China’s Soft-Power Offensive in Taiwan
China has learned trade and other enticements, rather than threats and bullying, are more effective in swaying voters during Taiwanese elections. But will China take the next step and learn that democracy Taiwan-style might also work in the mainland?
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TOKYO – China’s behavior during the recent presidential election in Taiwan demonstrates that its leaders have learned some lessons, if only the hard way. They have learned that China can have a greater impact on Taiwanese voters through trade and making people feel richer than by threats – even threats to fire missiles – which had been China’s electoral tactics in previous Taiwanese elections, particularly when a pro-independence candidate looked popular enough to win.