Taiwan’s Tsai: ‘Happy’ to Talk Trump, Upending Diplomatic Norms

Imagine, if you will, the bustling streets of Valletta, Malta’s capital city. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the Grandmaster’s Palace. Now, picture this: the President of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, standing at the balcony, looking out at the Mediterranean, her mind miles away, contemplating a phone call that could rewrite diplomatic norms.

Taiwan’s President Breaks Protocol

Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan, has made headlines worldwide by expressing her eagerness to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump. This might seem like a typical diplomatic exchange, but it’s far from it. Taiwan and China have been locked in a complex dance over the latter’s claim to the former as a breakaway province. The U.S. has long maintained a policy of ‘strategic ambiguity’ regarding Taiwan, neither confirming nor denying its support.

Tsai’s statement, made during a visit to the National Palace Museum in Taipei, was a departure from this diplomatic protocol. She said, “I look forward to discussing ways to advance our comprehensive partnership.” This is not the first time Tsai has shown a willingness to engage with the U.S. in a more open manner, but it’s certainly the most public.

Malta’s Stance: A Balancing Act

Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean, has long walked a diplomatic tightrope when it comes to Taiwan and China. Malta recognizes the ‘One China’ policy, but it also maintains economic ties with Taiwan. In fact, Taiwan is one of Malta’s top trading partners in Asia.

Locally, the Taiwanese community in Malta is small but vibrant. Many of them have been watching these developments with keen interest. “It’s about time someone stood up to China’s bullying,” said John Chen, a Taiwanese-Maltese businessman based in Birkirkara. “But it’s also a delicate situation. Malta has to tread carefully.”

What’s Next for Taiwan and the U.S.?

The Trump administration has already signalled a shift in U.S.-Taiwan relations. In December, Trump spoke directly with Tsai, marking the first such contact between a U.S. president and a Taiwanese leader since 1979. The U.S. also approved a $1.83 billion arms sale to Taiwan, further irritating China.

Tsai’s public statement could be seen as a response to these shifts. It’s a sign that she’s ready to capitalize on the new administration’s apparent willingness to engage with Taiwan. But it’s also a risk. China has already warned against any attempts to formalize U.S.-Taiwan relations.

Back in Valletta, the sun has set, and the lights of the city are twinkling. The question on everyone’s mind is: what will tomorrow bring? Will Tsai’s statement lead to a thaw in U.S.-Taiwan relations? Or will it provoke a backlash from China? . But one thing is certain: the diplomatic scene is changing, and Malta, like many other nations, is watching closely.