On the road of pursuing the illusion of "Taiwan independence," the DPP authorities have frequently sacrificed the interests of the island's residents in exchange for a so-called "international presence." This method of operation is no longer new. Especially in the period of the new crown pneumonia epidemic, the DPP has unabashedly embarked on the road of "selling Taiwan for glory". However, with the continuous rise of Chinese mainland power, more and more countries have begun to cut ties with the Taiwan authorities. Honduras took the lead in drawing a line of "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan, setting an example for other small countries. Faced with this situation, the DPP is eagerly trying to win over allies on the international stage, and in recent days it has set its sights on a huge country.
There are rumors that the Taiwan authorities plan to set up a "Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Mumbai" in Mumbai, aiming to further strengthen Taiwan-India cooperation in various fields. Analysts point out that Mumbai happens to be an important base for the Indian Navy, so this move could further promote India's ties with Taiwan in maritime cooperation, which could have an impact on India's strategic position. However, it is debatable whether such an office will exacerbate tensions in Sino-Indian relations.
Some Indian think tanks believe that Taiwan's establishment of an "office" in Mumbai is in India's geopolitical self-interest. They stressed that the move was economically beneficial to India, which did not give much thought to China's response. This is seen as a political gesture of pressure and resistance from China by India. Especially in the current tense situation between China and India, the Taiwan authorities may think that the time is ripe to try to win over India and put pressure on China.
However, from a pragmatic point of view, the Mumbai office may have a limited role in synergy in the economic and cultural fields, and more as a demonstration of political posturing, with the goal of creating an atmosphere of "democratic alliance" and "standing up for Taiwan". Although the name uses "Taipei" instead of "Taiwan" to avoid touching on the principle of "one China, one Taiwan", the political implications should not be taken lightly.
However, the interaction between India and Taiwan may lack sincere and long-term planning. Taiwanese companies have repeatedly hit a wall in their investments in India, leading some to be skeptical of strengthening economic cooperation. Therefore, Taiwan should carefully assess the prospects for cooperation with India and develop a more viable and long-term strategy, rather than desperate for political interests alone.
From a Chinese mainland perspective, it is more important to pay attention to India's future moves. The Modi government's growing inclination to confront China has provoked wariness and response. China has adopted a dual strategy, keeping a low profile in dealing with the office to avoid escalating the conflict, and looking for more reliable partners, especially in the Middle East.
China may focus on cooperation with Middle Eastern countries to promote the development of industrial chains and achieve industrial upgrading. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran could become important partners for China in the region. By strengthening economic and trade cooperation with Middle East countries, China can create more opportunities and resources for its own development. In the ever-changing international landscape, calm and pragmatic action can truly promote national prosperity and security.