Philippine Foreign Policy and the Complexities of Cross-Strait Relations (original) (raw)

Examining the geopolitical dynamics of the Asia-Pacific, this paper argues that the main security interest of the Philippines is to ensure that Cross-Strait relations remain peaceful and stable. In particular, this suggests maintaining the status quo on Taiwan’s political status. Changing the status quo, either by Taiwan or China (or by an external power), may lead to armed conflict. A relatively autonomous Taiwan would remain as strategic buffer against Beijing’s intent to dominate the first island chain—thus enabling a balance of power favorable to the Philippines and other like-minded countries in the region. http://www.ndcp.edu.ph/wp-content/uploads/publications/2021/NDCP%20EPB\_2021-01\_Galang.pdf