« Despite high US tariffs, things are going well for China »-DiePresse.com
Taiwan expert Stephan Thome explains how Beijing benefits from Donald Trump and with which arguments China attracts Europeans, why the Taiwan crisis can escalate dangerously over the next few years and Taiwan’s microchip protective shield is crumbling. And he advises the Europeans to think carefully about what they want from China.
« />
Taiwan’s President Lai with Taiwan’s army. Reuters / Ann Wang
The press: The United States has explained a brutal trade war. What will China do?
Stephan Thome: I assume that the dimension of the trade war himself surprised Beijing. However, China believes that he has good means to practice retaliation – especially the rare earths that the United States urgently need. Beijing is currently studying Donald Trump. And: Despite high tariffs, things are going quite well for China. They see with benevolence that democracy is no longer an argument for the USA in foreign policy: how Trump abandoned Ukraine, wants to switch off « Voice of America », destroys western alliances.
China tries to gain a foothold in Europe, probably also to solve his problem of overcapacity. How will China attract Europeans?
You will say: « We want free trade and we have a lot to offer. » We are reliable. We always told you that you have to emancipate yourself from the USA. Beijing needs markets for its exports, Europeans want direct investments: Since Trump took office, voices are increasing in the EU, which say that it should not be banned with China. This can be seen in discussions about China resolutions, such as that for avert cyber attacks.
What would you advise Europe?
Agree internally before you approach China. Defines what you want from China pulls red lines. China immediately notices when Europeans do not speak to one voice – and explains that. Beijing is trying to win over countries like Italy and Spain.
Will Trump give up Taiwan like Ukraine?
