by Francis Tuschek, Staff Writer
The recent commentary on Taiwan-US relations in light of Donald Trump’s re-election highlights a mix of optimism and caution among Taiwanese officials and experts. While government officials are hopeful that relations will strengthen under Trump’s leadership, there are concerns about his previous comments and proposals, such as the idea of charging Taiwan a “defense fee.”
Experts like Li Da-jung from Tamkang University express caution, suggesting that Taiwan should not rely solely on the US for security and must build its own capabilities. Trump’s proposal for tariffs and sanctions on Chinese companies could potentially benefit Taiwanese businesses by allowing them to fill gaps left by Chinese firms, according to National Development Council Minister Paul Liu.
The Kuomintang (KMT) party is also expressing optimism about a robust Taiwan-US relationship under Trump, with plans for delegation visits to the US to strengthen ties. However, officials are also promoting a cautious approach, stressing the importance of establishing strong relationships with members of the new administration, particularly those involved in China policy.
Overall, while there are hopes for enhanced cooperation, there is a clear recognition of the need for Taiwan to remain vigilant and proactive in its international strategy amidst potential changes in US policy.
近期有關台灣與美國關係的評論，鑑於唐納德·特朗普的連任，突顯出台灣官員和專家之間的樂觀與謹慎交織。雖然政府官員對特朗普領導下的關係加強抱有希望，但也對他過去的言論和提議表示擔憂，例如向台灣收取「防禦費」的想法。
來自淡江大學的專家李大榮表達了謹慎的態度，建議台灣不應僅依賴美國來保障安全，而應該建立自己的能力。國發會主委劉憶如指出，特朗普對中國公司的關稅和制裁提議可能會使台灣企業受益，因為這樣可以填補中國公司留下的空缺。
中國國民黨（KMT）也對特朗普主政下台美關係的穩健發展表示樂觀，並計劃派遣代表團訪問美國以加強雙邊關係。然而，官員們也在提倡謹慎的做法，強調與新政府成員，特別是涉及中國政策的成員建立良好關係的重要性。
總體而言，雖然對加強合作充滿期待，但明顯意識到台灣在美國政策可能變化的情況下，需要保持警覺並主動制定國際策略。
