Event Report: Book Launch - India And Taiwan- A Reality Check by Ambassador Dr. Charles Li.
- Chennai Centre for China Studies
- 14 minutes ago
- 3 min read
By Annunthra Rangan
Organised by the Chennai Centre for China Studies (C3S), Taiwan Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), and Prof. Ramu Manivannan
The Chennai Centre for China Studies (C3S), in collaboration with the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) and Professor Ramu Manivannan, hosted the book launch of India and Taiwan: A Reality Check, authored by Ambassador Dr. Charles Li. This event marked yet another successful book launch by C3S and stood out for its focus on the growing strategic and economic ties between India and Taiwan — a subject garnering global interest, including from countries like China and the United States.
Though Ambassador Dr. Charles Li could not attend the event in person, he conveyed his message through Mr. Sumit, an enthusiastic supporter of India-Taiwan relations. His presence was missed, but the essence of his commitment to documenting this important bilateral relationship resonated throughout the evening.
The launch was graced by a distinguished panel of dignitaries and experts, including:
Mr. Richard Chen, Director General, TECC, Chennai and team
Commodore R S Vasan IN (Retd), Director General, C3S and team C3S
Mr. M. R. Sivaraman, Former Finance Secretary of India and Executive Director, IMF
Mr. Sunil Rallan, Chairman and Managing Director, Matadee Free Trade Zone Pvt. Ltd
Advocates from Lincoln Global Law Chambers
Commodore R S Vasan opened the evening with a warm welcome address and an insightful overview of the book’s chapters. He emphasized the significance of the India-Taiwan relationship in the context of shifting regional dynamics, economic opportunities, and strategic convergence.
Overview of the Book
Chapter I: Introduction
This chapter provides context to India-Taiwan relations, a subject historically overlooked in Indian discourse. It highlights the growing relevance of Taiwan to India, particularly in light of India’s rapid economic development, demographic dividend, evolving foreign policy, strategic partnerships, regional connectivity initiatives, and multilateral engagements. The chapter also explores Taiwan's technological strengths and how they can complement India's growth trajectory.
Chapter II: Historical Ties between India and China
This section delves into the early interactions between the two ancient civilizations, their relations since the 18th century, the historical interpretations of "China," and India’s evolving stance towards the Republic of China (ROC) in international forums, including the United Nations.
Chapter III: India-Taiwan Relations in a Bilateral Context
Key themes explored include India’s “One-China Policy,” its Look East and Act East policies vis-à-vis Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, bilateral educational and cultural exchanges, high-level visits, agreements, and convergences in the Indo-Pacific and other strategic arenas.
Chapter IV: Evaluating Strengths and Potential
This chapter focuses on Taiwan's industrial and technological capabilities, its position in the global supply chain, and the potential synergies with India’s market, talent, and policy frameworks for mutual economic and strategic gains.
The final chapter reflects on the historical continuity of India–China civilizational interactions, particularly emphasizing the distinct identity of the Republic of China (Taiwan) post-World War II and its democratic consolidation from the late 1980s. It highlights Taiwan’s evolving international identity and the growing number of Taiwanese citizens identifying themselves with Taiwan rather than as part of a singular “China.”
Reflections from the Dais
Mr. M.R. Sivaraman offered critical insights on the economic dimensions of the India–Taiwan relationship and how stronger cooperation can aid mutual growth.
Mr. Sunil Rallan stressed the need for greater economic synergy and highlighted the potential of bilateral trade and industrial cooperation between the two economies.
The event concluded with an interactive session among the guests, followed by group photographs and an informal exchange of thoughts and ideas. The book India and Taiwan: A Reality Check is expected to be a key contribution to scholarship and strategic thinking on a largely under explored dimension of India's foreign policy.
