Director General Elliot Wang
Have you ever wondered where the magnificent whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium originated? Surprisingly, they hail from Taiwan – an island that witnessed a smooth presidential election on January 13, 2024. The election outcome reflects Taiwan’s unwavering dedication to maintaining its democratic system despite China’s pressures. The implications resonate not only in economic and cultural exchanges but also in the geopolitical landscape, extending far beyond the borders of Taiwan– and stretching to the United States and the state of Georgia.
In a historic moment for Taiwan, President-elect Lai Ching-te and Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim, the latter stationed in Washington DC as Taiwan’s ambassador before the election, marked an unparalleled third-term victory for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). This success is more than a local triumph. It is a testament to the strength and maturity of Taiwan’s democratic system, standing resilient against authoritarian influences that threaten global stability.
Taiwan’s commitment to contributing to peace and stability in the Pacific region is emphasized by its strategic position in the first island chain, serving as a pivotal player at the center of East Asia. The uniqueness of Taiwan as the only Mandarin-speaking democracy stands in stark contrast to its authoritarian neighbor China, where freedoms and human rights are undervalued. The continuous and numerous gray zone attacks launched by China on Taiwan, both before and after the recent election, have only exemplified the challenges faced by the island nation. However, amid fighter jets flying over median line to incursions, cyber-attacks, economic coercion and even the loss of Nauru, Taiwan demonstrated resilience. And the election process successfully prevailed.
What’s more, this election reinforces Taiwan’s shared democratic values with the United States and Georgia and allows for continued stable, collaborative relations in economics, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic relations. Economically,
Taiwan ranks as the United States’ ninth-largest trading partner, with a notable $160 billion trade amount in 2022, emphasizing the mutual economic benefits. Georgia, in turn, views Taiwan as its 16th largest export market and the 12th import country, engaging in trade involving aircraft, circuits, poultry, gas turbines and medical instruments. The signing of the “US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade” in June 2023 further solidified this economic partnership by addressing customs, border procedures, regulatory practices and supporting small businesses.
Moreover, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) signed a groundbreaking agreement with Taiwan for mutual recognition of driver’s licenses. This allows individuals with a driver’s license in Georgia to easily obtain an equivalent license in Taiwan, and vice versa, without the need for additional tests. Beyond the convenience it provides for travel, this agreement has led to increased mobility by bringing more business professionals, talented individuals, tourists and students from Taiwan to Georgia. Notably, institutions like Georgia Tech are experiencing a notable influx of Taiwanese students in Ph.D. and master’s programs, fostering academic and cultural exchange between the two sides.
The cultural and people-to-people connections are equally vibrant, with five Georgia cities having sister city agreements with Taiwanese counterparts. Atlanta, Fulton County, Brunswick, Columbus, and Macon engage in people exchanges and cultural interactions, fostering a deeper understanding between the communities. The local Taiwanese community in Georgia actively organizes cultural events, including the upcoming “Atlanta Lunar New Year Festival” on February 10 and 11 (webpage: https://shorturl.at/fBEFS), providing a platform for cross-cultural celebration.
Additionally, the establishment of the “Southeastern State Legislative Taiwan Caucus” (SESTC) in 2021 demonstrates bipartisan support, with over 70 Georgia state senators and representatives actively endorsing and fostering friendship with Taiwan. Friendly resolutions passed by both chambers further reinforce the commitment to cooperation. Notably, engaging talks on Taiwan-U.S. and Taiwan-Georgia relations have been conducted at the state Capitol, emphasizing the importance of dialogues in strengthening the ties between the two sides.
Overall, these multifaceted connections underscore the depth and significance of the relationships between the United States, Taiwan, and Georgia.
As we approach the landmark 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act in 2024, passed by U.S. Congress in 1979 facilitating close security, business, educational and cultural relations with Taiwan, the ties between Taiwan, the U.S., and Georgia remain robust. Just like the enduring connection between Taiwan and the whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium, our friendship continues to thrive. Taiwan’s democratic elections not only showcase the strength of its political system but also lay a solid foundation for future cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan and Georgia.
Elliot Wang is the Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Atlanta.
