Taiwan’s reaction remains positive but cautious towards Trump phone call

President-elect Donald Trump's recent phone conversation with Taiwan president, Tsai Iing-wen, has been met with mixed reactions from different parts of the world, but it seems like the reaction in Taiwan has been mostly positive. Despite the positive remarks from Taiwanese publications and social media posts, majority of the reactions have been more on the cautious side given the volatility of Taiwan's situation with China.

Taiwan's current president, who officially started her term back in May, has been adamant in her mission to significantly reduce her country's economic reliance and political ties with China. Beijing previously threatened the thriving nation with military force should it proclaim its sovereignty from mainland China. Taiwan is currently being claimed by China as one of its territories under its One China policy.

The United States severed its close ties with Taiwan back in 1979, after it had officially recognized the People's Republic of China. As of the moment, reports are speculating that thousands of missiles are currently pointed at the country, across the Taiwan Strait, should China have the need to show that it means business.

In Taiwan, there are currently two opposing views regarding the recent telephone conversation between president-elect Trump and President Tsai. On one hand, some people believe that the country needs to take the opportunity to strengthen its relations with the United States and expand its political situation. On the other hand, some people are fearful that China may not take things sitting down as they may increase their pressure on the country, thereby threatening its future.

Despite the continued threat from China, majority of the citizens in Taiwan still continue to remain positive about the entire situation. Some even see it as a major progress from their new government, as it marks the first time in 37 years that the leaders of both countries have spoken.