Taiwan is intensifying efforts to deepen military and economic cooperation with the United States, despite concerns over tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump that have unsettled Taiwanese businesses. On May 11, 2025, Kung Ming-hsin, secretary-general of Taiwan’s executive branch, highlighted opportunities for collaboration in security and technology during a Washington investment summit. The move comes as Taiwan navigates a 90-day pause on hefty U.S. tariffs imposed last month, which threaten its semiconductor-heavy exports. Reuters reported that President Lai Ching-te has met with industry leaders ten times to address these economic challenges.
Geopolitical and Economic Context: A Strategic Partnership
Taiwan’s push for closer U.S. ties is driven by its role as a global semiconductor powerhouse and its precarious position amid China’s threats to forcibly reclaim the island. Around 60% of Taiwan’s exports to the U.S. are in information technology, primarily semiconductors used in everything from weapons to supercomputers. BBC notes that Taiwan produces over 60% of the world’s chips, making it a critical U.S. ally. Kung proposed joint research in areas like drones, leveraging Taiwan’s manufacturing prowess and U.S. technological advancements. However, Trump’s tariffs, affecting global trade partners including United States allies, have sparked fears of economic disruption. Meanwhile, China’s escalating rhetoric underscores the importance of U.S. security guarantees for China-threatened Taiwan.
Historical Fact: The 1979 Taiwan Relations Act
A pivotal moment in Taiwan-U.S. relations is the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, passed after the U.S. shifted diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing. The act commits the U.S. to provide Taiwan with defensive arms and maintain the capacity to resist any coercion by China, cementing Taiwan’s role as a key security partner. This historical framework underpins today’s military and technological cooperation, as Taiwan faces growing threats from Taiwan Relations Act-relevant Chinese aggression.
Taiwanese Culture: Beef Noodle Soup Recipe
Amid geopolitical tensions, Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage offers comfort and connection. Taiwanese beef noodle soup, a beloved dish, symbolizes the island’s vibrant food culture. Try this recipe to savor a taste of Taiwanese culture.
Traditional Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef shank, cut into chunks
- 1 lb wheat noodles
- 1 onion, halved
- 4 slices ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili bean paste (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth or water
- Bok choy, blanched
- Green onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Blanch beef in boiling water for 5 minutes, then rinse to remove impurities.
- In a large pot, sauté onion, ginger, and garlic until fragrant. Add star anise, cinnamon, soy sauces, rice wine, sugar, and chili bean paste.
- Add beef and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions. Place in bowls with blanched bok choy.
- Ladle beef and broth over noodles. Garnish with green onions and cilantro. Serve hot.
Looking Forward
As Taiwan navigates U.S. tariffs and Chinese threats, its pursuit of deeper cooperation with the U.S. reflects strategic resilience. The coming months will test this partnership’s ability to balance economic and security priorities. Celebrate Taiwan’s spirit by making beef noodle soup, and stay tuned for updates on this critical diplomacy story.
By Planet-Today.com via AFP