Reflections on the Rules-Based Order: Diplomacy & Conflict in Taiwan's Region

***This is a free, in-person event held at the AIIA National Office in Deakin, ACT***

Panel One: Security and Supply Chains in the Indo-Pacific

Tensions across the Taiwan Straits have risen dramatically since US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi made an official visit to Taiwan. Military activity around Taiwan has increased, with China's regular incursion into Taiwan's Air Defence Identification Zone. Meanwhile, supply chains around the world, particularly critical technology supply chains in which Taiwan is a key player, remain impacted by COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. China has made it clear that it sees trade as a tool in its political statecraft, and many states in the region have implemented onshoring and "friendshoring" policies in response. How does Taiwan want the international community to respond to the China's increased military presence in its region? How do efforts to secure critical technology supply chains impact Taiwan's relationship with its major trading partners and with China? What does this mean for Taiwan-Australia trade relations?

Panel Two: Taiwan's Efforts to Create a Diplomatic Space

Taiwan is formally recognised by just 12 states and was denied formal membership to the UN and its associated institutions by Resolution 2758. Yet Taiwan is an active participant in the international arena, maintaining official and unofficial relations with other countries, participating in international political and economic institutions, and engaging with external actors through its civil society and the nonprofit sectors. Throughout the pandemic, Taiwan stepped up as a leading provider of personal protective equipment to many of the hardest-hit countries. How can Taiwan build on the successful of its pandemic engagement policies as the world moves beyond COVID-19? What can the global community to do expand and secure Taiwan's access to multilateral fora? How might Taiwan's international engagement strategy change and evolve going forward, especially looking to the 2024 presidential election?

All-day catering will be provided. Please note that the AIIA National Conference Center is on the upper floor of the building and is not accessible by elevator. Ample free and paid parking is available near the venue.