A Chance to
Strengthen the U.S.-Taiwan Relationship
Perhaps the most
difficult period for a country that is making a transition from an
authoritarian form of government to one of democratic principles, is
the time in which the dust has settled, and the hard work must truly
begin. After the euphoria of taking off the yoke of an oppressive
government has subsided, the building of both a responsible
government and civil society must take place in order for such a
transition to be truly successful. Taiwan is currently in this
“adolescent” period of its development. Although Taiwan has
become increasingly isolated diplomatically over the past several
decades, the people and government of Taiwan have continued to
maintain a special and unique relationship with another state that
has had its share of growing pains over the centuries: The United
States.
The Ambassador Program,
which is sponsored by the American-based Formosa Foundation, has
looked to strengthen this relationship between the two countries by
educating college level students about issues that effect both the
United States and Taiwan, and then challenging these students to
enter into the American political system with the role of advocating
such issues to members of the United States Congress.
This two week
“political boot camp” first educates the participants by
introducing them to guest speakers who are among the best in their
respective fields in order to give the students the knowledge and
tools necessary to advocate for issues that are of mutual interest to
Taiwan and the United States. In 2012, students had the opportunity
to meet and engage with a number of experts on US-Taiwan relations.
A few of these people included recently retired Assistant Secretary
of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell, long time
Taiwan supporter Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio, Project 2049 CEO and
former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Randy Schriver, former
Director of AIT Dr. Richard Bush, and former Legislative Yuan
representative Winston Dang.
During the second week
of the program the students will use their enhanced knowledge of
current issues that are important to US-Taiwan relations and advocate
for these issues with members of Congress and their respective
staffs. The promotion of democracy, human rights, free media and
press within Taiwan, as well as their importance to American
interests are discussed, as well as issues of Taiwan's security
agreements with the United States, enhanced trade among the two
countries, and the overall improvement of relations. Last year
students met with over 176 members of Congress and their staff with
the goal of the strengthening of ties between the two countries. The
program ended last year with students pressing for members of
Congress to sign a letter that was to be delivered to President
Obama, urging the resumption of talks between the two countries
regarding a free trade agreement: talks that have now been scheduled
to resume. There is a great sense of pride when one completes this
program: I felt it last year as a participant.
The 2013 program is
scheduled to take place from June 17th-28th, and I would
encourage all interested students to apply at
www.formosafoundation.org. The deadline to apply is March 25th.
Thannk you for sharing this
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