Lai To Lee - Böcker

The question of the reunification of China has been haunting both sides of the Taiwan Strait since the departure of the Kuomintang from mainland China to Taiwan in 1949. This in-depth study examines the policies of Beijing and Taipei toward reunification. The China policies of the other major powers, with special reference to the Taiwan issue, are also explored. The work deals with possible options or solutions to the reunification issue, with options available to the concerned parties, and with interactions and trends in the Taiwan strait. The problems and prospects for China's reunification are clearly delineated. A special postscript on the Tiananmen Square issue and the repercussions of that incident on relations between Beijing and Taipei is of timely interest. The author proposes that the major avenue by which Beijing and Taipei could work toward reunification is through confidence-building measures and practical exchanges.The Reunification of China is a comprehensive study of a sensitive issue of contemporary Chinese politics. In the discussion of the policies of the major powers, much emphasis is given to the role the United States could play in reunification. Possible ways in which reunification could be mapped out are studied through alternatives and proposals. Interactions and trends in the Taiwan strait--such as the visitation program by Taipei, cultural exchanges, and economic discourse--are focused on. This volume will be of value to those concerned with Asian studies, sociology of mass movements, and revolution and political violence.

Lee provides an in-depth analysis of China's diplomatic strategy in bilateral and multilateral negotiations on the South China Sea. Based on both documentary research and the personal experiences of the author at conferences and meetings on the issue, Lee highlights the approach adopted by China in its dealings with other parties to the dispute. Professor Lee also examines the state of cross-strait dialogues between Taiwan and China on the South China Sea.As Professor Lee makes clear, while China has been consistent in stating that its claims over the South China Sea are indisputable, Beijing is still willing to talk about the conflicts with the parties involved. While China prefers to conduct bilateral discussions, it has not ruled out multilateral talks and cooperation in the South China Sea. However, there has been limited progress in these talks, especially those conducted at multilateral meetings. As most of the claimants are from ASEAN, the book also examines Sino-ASEAN relations in general and explores how that would affect China's conduct in South China Sea discussions. An important study for scholars, and policy makers involved in security issues in the Asia Pacific.

As China takes up the mantle of a global power, its diplomatic policy has changed significantly as it assumes a role of regional leadership.Until recently, China has not tended to talk about its developmental strategy as a model for others to follow. Since the rise of Xi Jinping this has changed, and the state has become more open in sharing its developmental experiences with its neighbours. This has become an important part of China’s diplomatic relations with other countries in East Asia. Beijing has also emphasized people-to-people diplomacy, with outward tourism and other exchanges of peoples seen as an important part of building stronger relations with its neighbours. The chapters in this book all address different elements of this strategy, looking at China’s bilateral relationships with other East Asian countries in terms of developmental relations and the increasing mutual exposure of their citizens.This book will be of great interest to scholars of Chinese diplomacy, especially those with a particular interest in soft power.