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This paper examines recent modifications in American policy toward the Republic of China (ROC or Taiwan). It contends that, while the George W. Bush Administration may have carried out a significant readjustment of US policy, available evidence suggests that it will not endorse any major upgrades in ties with Taipei during the foreseeable future. Like previous administrations, the Bush Administration now recognizes the value of engaging the People's Republic of China (PRC). This development holds important implications for the future trajectory of America's relations with Taiwan and the PRC and for peace and stability in the Western Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the presence of new presidents in Taiwan and the US, the basic dynamics of the US–China–Taiwan triangle and the dilemmas faced by leaders on all three sides have remained largely intact. This paper looks at how Chen Shui-bian and George W. Bush have tried to change the policies and practices they inherited from their predecessors. Chen has shown himself to be a less provocative president, and Bush has adopted more supportive and sympathetic policies toward Taiwan. Despite their personal inclinations, they have been able to make only marginal changes in their relations with the other, and with China. Domestic political conflicts and competing strategic interests prevent a fundamental change in relations between the US, China, and Taiwan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A policy of strategic ambiguity is the fundamental policy of the US toward cross-Strait relations. The US takes very ambiguous positions on its commitment to Taiwan's security, arms sales to Taiwan and Taiwan's future status, which are hoped to facilitate peace keeping and stability maintenance in the Taiwan Strait. However, a policy of strategic ambiguity cannot avoid three main troubles in dealing with the Taiwan issue: the dilemma of deterrence; a cross-Strait arms race; and possible military involvement in potential cross-Strait conflict. The 1995-1996 Taiwan Strait crisis has demonstrated the bankruptcy of this ambiguous strategy. US policy regarding the Taiwan question has been forced to a crossroads. It is high time the US abandoned its strategic ambiguity policy. Clarifying Taiwan policy should be the Bush Administration's top, if not the first, priority. But neither clear commitment to Taiwan's defense, either conditional or unconditional, nor letting Taiwan defend itself are correct directions for US policy clarification. Only supporting peaceful reunification of both sides across the Taiwan Strait is the best alternative, which would serve America's national interest in the Asia-Pacific region better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]