The 2024 Yushan Forum, set to take place in Taipei from Monday to Tuesday, will feature a distinguished lineup of global leaders, reflecting Taiwan’s growing international engagement. The event, organized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), will welcome former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen and former Slovenian Prime Minister Ivan Janša, among other high-profile figures.
This year’s theme, “New Southbound Policy+: Taiwan, the Indo-Pacific, and a New World,” underscores Taiwan’s strategic shift towards deeper cooperation with Indo-Pacific nations and like-minded global partners. The forum aims to showcase how Taiwan leverages digital and smart technologies to advance its New Southbound Policy (NSP) and strengthen economic, political, and cultural ties across the region.
Key Speakers and Participants
The 2024 Yushan Forum will host a lineup of international political figures, including:
- Anders Fogh Rasmussen – Former Prime Minister of Denmark and NATO Secretary-General.
- Ivan Janša – Former Prime Minister of Slovenia.
- Pavel Fischer – Czech Republic Senator.
- Anna Fotyga – Former Polish Foreign Minister.
- Mantas Adomėnas – Former Lithuanian Deputy Foreign Minister.
- Tony Clement – Former Canadian Health Minister.
- Keiji Furuya – Senior Japanese lawmaker and chairman of the Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council.
Additionally, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) will deliver keynote addresses on the opening day.
The Role of the New Southbound Policy
Since its launch in 2016 by former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文), the New Southbound Policy (NSP) has served as Taiwan’s key diplomatic and economic initiative aimed at strengthening relations with 18 countries across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific region, including:
- Southeast Asia: Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos.
- South Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan.
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
The 2024 Yushan Forum will expand the NSP concept by integrating digital technologies, smart innovation, and regional cooperation to ensure Taiwan’s continued engagement with the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Taiwan’s Growing Global Influence
The Yushan Forum has become Taiwan’s premier platform for international dialogue, attracting political leaders, scholars, and policymakers who support Taiwan’s vision for regional stability, trade expansion, and technological collaboration. This year’s event is particularly significant as Taiwan seeks to counter China’s diplomatic pressure and reinforce its position as a valuable economic and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific.
MOFA stated in a press release that Taiwan will showcase its leadership in digital transformation, green energy, and innovation, positioning itself as a hub for regional cooperation. The participation of key European, North American, and Asian leaders signals increasing international support for Taiwan’s engagement in global affairs.
Potential Impact and Takeaways
- Taiwan’s expanded New Southbound Policy+ reflects a broader Indo-Pacific strategy, strengthening political alliances and economic partnerships.
- The participation of former European leaders and key figures from Japan and Canada highlights growing international recognition of Taiwan’s diplomatic and economic importance.
- Taiwan’s push for smart and digital innovation in NSP countries could create new opportunities in trade, technology, and cultural exchanges.
- The forum serves as a counterweight to China’s influence in the region, reinforcing Taiwan’s commitment to regional cooperation and stability.
FAQs
What is the Yushan Forum?
The Yushan Forum is an annual international event organized by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to enhance regional and global partnerships, particularly under Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy (NSP).
What is the focus of the 2024 Yushan Forum?
The 2024 forum will focus on expanding Taiwan’s NSP to include global partners and promoting digital, smart, and innovative solutions for economic and diplomatic collaboration.
Who are the key speakers at the event?
Notable speakers include:
Anders Fogh Rasmussen (Denmark)
Ivan Janša (Slovenia)
Pavel Fischer (Czech Republic)
Anna Fotyga (Poland)
Mantas Adomėnas (Lithuania)
Tony Clement (Canada)
Keiji Furuya (Japan)
President Lai Ching-te (Taiwan)
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (Taiwan)
Why is Taiwan focusing on the Indo-Pacific region?
Taiwan’s Indo-Pacific engagement aligns with its efforts to diversify trade, build regional partnerships, and enhance security cooperation in response to increasing geopolitical challenges.
How does the New Southbound Policy benefit Taiwan?
The NSP helps Taiwan reduce economic dependence on China by deepening trade, investment, and cultural ties with Indo-Pacific nations.
How does the Yushan Forum impact Taiwan’s international standing?
The forum strengthens Taiwan’s global image as a proactive, innovative, and reliable partner, attracting international support amid growing geopolitical challenges.
