The US has played the most significant role in Taiwan’s existence as a state. From the battles on the Kinmin island, to its defence of the Taiwanese waters against Chinese muscular military moves, to arming the Taiwan armed forces, US support has been total and liberal. In this scheme of things, US plans of engaging China to obtain a stable northeast Asian region is an important new element.

President-elect Ma Ying-jeou is seeking to build upon this emerging geo-political momentum to retain Taiwan’s status quo and also increase its international space. He has the presidency and control of the legislature. There is every hope for a new and historic beginning of peace and stability in the region. There is an immediate sense of relief in major capitals that cross-strait relations will soon get on an even keel.

The writer, a retired lieutenant general, is advisor, Delhi Policy Groupgenraghavan@yahoo.com