The U.S. "Rebalancing" Policy and China's Search for a "New Type of Great Power Relationship" with the United States: Some Potential Implications for Taiwan

Many observers suggest the history of great power relations does not bode well for the U.S.-China relationship. Both sides are pursuing strategies that combine engagement and balancing. The United States is shifting its strategic focus toward Asia to maintain U.S. influence and assure American allies. Many in China are concerned that Washington will attempt to delay or prevent China's emergence as a great power. Nonetheless, both sides have a strong interest in avoiding a relationship characterized primarily by strategic rivalry. Washington has underscored the importance it attaches to building a stable and constructive U.S.-China relationship. Beijing has stated it seeks a "new type of major country relationship" with the United States. What all of this will mean for Taiwan is a crucial question. Although cross-Strait relations have improved dramatically, the future is uncertain, and the United States remains an indispensable source of political and military backing for Taiwan.