China, Taiwan and the Evolution of "One China" Policy

Despite consistent statements in four decades, the U.S. "one China" policy concerning Taiwan remains somewhat ambiguous and subject to different interpretations. Apart from questions about what the "one China" policy entails, issues have arisen about whether the U.S. Presidents have stated clear positions and have changed or should change policy, affecting U.S. interests in security and democracy. This book discusses the "one China" policy since the U.S. began in 1971 to reach presidential understanding with the People's Republic of China (PRC) government in Beijing. It also documents the evolution of policy as affected by legislation and articulated in key statements by Washington, Beijing, and Taipei.