Since the early 1990s, India and Taiwan have progressively strengthened their bilateral relations by loosening visa restrictions and establishing representative offices in their capitals. Key milestones include:
The "Look East Policy," initiated by the Indian government in the early 1990s, aimed to enhance economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asian countries, laying the groundwork for improved ties with Taiwan.
In 2016, Taiwan launched its "New Southbound Policy" under the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration to diversify its international engagements and reduce economic dependence on China. India became a significant partner in this initiative.
Bilateral trade between India and Taiwan reached approximately $8.224 billion in 2023. Taiwan's exports to India were valued at $6.013 billion, reflecting a 13% growth. Around 200 Taiwanese businesses are actively investing in India across various sectors such as:
Companies like Foxconn and TSMC are significantly involved in India's market. Foxconn's CEO, Young Liu, frequently visits India, expanding the company's operations. Although TSMC primarily focuses on the U.S., it remains a vital player in discussions about India's semiconductor industry.
Joint ventures, such as Tata's collaboration with Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation, highlight the growing economic ties between India and Taiwan.
Over the past decade, more than 500 Indian students have received scholarships from the ROC (Taiwan) government. Currently, around 3,000 Indian students are pursuing studies in Taiwan. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on academic recognition signed in 2019 allows for increased research collaboration and exchanges. Additionally, 31 Taiwan Education Centers have been established in Indian universities to promote Mandarin and facilitate educational exchanges.
Taiwanese films are frequently showcased at Indian film festivals, while various Taiwanese cultural groups have performed in India, fostering mutual understanding and cultural ties.
Visits by Taiwanese art and dance troupes have further enhanced cultural connections between the two nations.
Since 2007, an MOU on scientific cooperation has led to numerous joint projects in areas like agricultural science, sustainable energy, healthcare, and digital technology. Regular bilateral meetings and seminars are held to further collaborative efforts.
The relationship between India and Taiwan has strengthened, particularly after the 2020 Galwan clashes between India and China. Taiwan's New Southbound Policy, along with India's strategic interests, has propelled closer ties, especially in economic and technological collaborations within the semiconductor sector.
China has attempted to undermine India-Taiwan relations through disinformation campaigns. However, both countries strive to maintain their autonomy in decision-making. The partnership continues to evolve amid these geopolitical complexities.
Despite positive developments, challenges persist, including a mismatch in approaches—India's focus on economic ties versus Taiwan's desire for political engagement. Future relations will depend on sustained economic incentives and the strategic separation from China. Both nations must continue to navigate these complexities to solidify their partnership, which relies on mutual interests and traditional areas of cooperation.
Q1. What are the key developments in India-Taiwan relations?
Answer: Significant developments include the establishment of TECC in New Delhi in 1995, economic collaborations, and ongoing education exchanges, with Taiwan emerging as a key partner for India.
Q2. How has the Look East Policy influenced India-Taiwan relations?
Answer: The Look East Policy initiated by India in the 1990s facilitated improved economic and strategic relations with Taiwan, paving the way for bilateral cooperation.
Q3. What is the significance of the New Southbound Policy for India?
Answer: Taiwan's New Southbound Policy aims to diversify international engagements and reduce reliance on China, positioning India as a crucial partner in this strategic initiative.
Q4. What areas of investment are prominent between India and Taiwan?
Answer: Major investments from Taiwan in India include sectors like electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, automotive components, and finance, reflecting growing economic ties.
Q5. How do cultural exchanges enhance India-Taiwan relations?
Answer: Cultural exchanges, including film screenings and performances, promote mutual understanding and strengthen the ties between India and Taiwan, fostering deeper connections.
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