In search of national security: Strategic concepts of the Republic of China at a crossroads

The security situation in East Asia since the end of the cold war has become more, rather than less complex, especially as the People's Republic of China (PRC) pursues its claims in the South China Sea. The primary strategic objective of the Republic of China (ROC) on Taiwan is survival through breaking the PRC's diplomatic blockade. This objective is being pursued in the economic, political, and diplomatic arenas. Concurrently, the ROC is seeking a dialogue through continuous constructive engagement with Beijing. Furthermore, the ROC supports multilateral efforts at assuring regional stability and cooperation.