Taiwan Strait Relations: Rebuilding Trust through Cross-Strait Dialogue and Mutual Understanding

The perspectives of indigenous Taiwanese communities, including the Amis and the Atayal, are crucial in understanding the conflict, as they have been marginalized in the historical and cultural narratives of the region.

The 1992 consensus was a compromise between Beijing and the KMT under pressure from the US, and its legacy continues to shape the conflict today. The historical context of the consensus is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the complex relationships between China, Taiwan, and the US.

The concept of 'cold peace' is a common phenomenon in East Asian international relations, reflecting the complex and often tense relationships between neighboring countries. The idea of rebuilding trust through cross-strait dialogue is a key aspect of Chinese foreign policy, but it also raises questions about the limits of compromise and the role of external powers in shaping regional dynamics.

Research on international conflict suggests that trust-building and dialogue are essential in reducing tensions and preventing conflict. However, the effectiveness of these approaches depends on the specific context and the willingness of parties to compromise.

The conflict across the Taiwan Strait is often portrayed as a zero-sum game, with each side seeking to assert its dominance over the other. However, this narrative neglects the complex cultural and spiritual dimensions of the conflict, including the role of ancestral spirits and the concept of ' Tianxia' (all under heaven).

Scenario planning and future modelling suggest that the conflict across the Taiwan Strait is likely to continue, with potential flashpoints including the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. However, a more nuanced approach is needed to address the complex historical and cultural contexts that underlie the conflict.

The perspectives of marginalized communities, including indigenous Taiwanese and mainland Chinese, are crucial in understanding the conflict. However, these voices are often neglected in mainstream narratives, which focus on the interests of the Chinese government and the KMT.