Navigating India-Taiwan Relations in the Digital Age: Surveying the Theory and Practice of Science and Technology Diplomacy
Authored by Ramnath Reghunadhan
Dr Ramnath Reghunadhan is an Assistant Professor at Department of Social Sciences, School of Social Sciences, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) University, Vellore, India.
The India-Taiwan relationship is a compelling case study in the contemporary international relations (IR) landscape, where science and technology diplomacy (S&TD) increasingly defines national security and economic growth. Despite their geographical separation, both nations share a common vision for S&T innovation and related economic development. With its fast-growing economy and youthful population, India seeks to assert itself as a global leader in science and technology (S&T). Concurrently, Taiwan, known for its advancements in the semiconductor industry and technological initiatives, is navigating complex international dynamics to enhance its global partnerships. Together, the potential for elevating India-Taiwan relations with S&TD as a tool is unprecedented. The integration and institutionalization of S&TD into India-Taiwan relations not only reinforces the corresponding national interest and security aspirations but also positions them strategically to leverage scientific capabilities and technological strengths and, in turn, address existing and future regional challenges as well as exigencies and enhance mutual economic benefits.
The book Navigating India-Taiwan Relations in the Digital Age: Surveying the Theory and Practice of Science and Technology Diplomacy explores the increasingly complex and dynamic relationship between India and Taiwan, set against the backdrop of rapid technoscientific progress and politico-economic transformation. This book offers a deep dive into the diplomatic, economic, and technological ties between these two countries, which are becoming increasingly significant in today’s interconnected world. The author examines how the digital age is reshaping international relations, focusing on the roles that science, technology, cybersecurity, and digital diplomacy play in fostering deeper connections between India and Taiwan in the current geopolitical and geo-economic scenario. The book navigates both the theoretical and practical dimensions of science and technology diplomacy (S&TD), shedding light on the evolving partnership of India and Taiwan within the broader (re)contextualization of the global multilateral governance in the Indo-Pacific region. The focus of the book includes:
- Examining the integration of S&TD into India-Taiwan relations, which include historical connections, current collaborations, and future potential.
- The role of S&TD in fostering bilateral cooperation between India and Taiwan highlights opportunities in R&D.
- Examining interlinkages between S&TD and the nature of global politico-economic alliance-building between India and Taiwan in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The evolution and elevation of India and Taiwan in technological interdependence in a broader geopolitical and geo-economic landscape.
- The role of digital diplomacy and bilateral cooperation in shaping foreign policy in the context of the China factor and in navigating geopolitical, economic and technological challenges as well as opportunities.
The book provides a theoretical framework for S&TD, contextualizing it within contemporary international relations. It explores the ontological and epistemological evolution of S&TD, offering a structured approach to understanding its significance for bilateral relations. The book unveils the complexities and opportunities in their partnership by analyzing the current state of India-Taiwan relations. It reviews historical contexts, ongoing collaborations, and potential future initiatives in domains like semiconductors, health governance, and renewable energy. The author draws from diverse academic research, policy analyses, and case studies to create a cohesive narrative that illuminates the challenges and potential for mutual growth through strategic partnerships.
The book offers actionable insights for policymakers, emphasizing the need for coordinated S&TD efforts that can enhance diplomatic ties, stimulate economic growth, and address regional security concerns amidst geopolitical tensions. It highlights the role of S&TD in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), showcasing how collaborative efforts can promote technological advancement and contribute to broader environmental and social objectives. The book situates India-Taiwan relations within a larger Indo-Pacific context, analyzing how their partnership can influence regional security dynamics, counterbalance the influence of major powers like China, and foster a stable geopolitical environment. The book encourages ongoing dialogue by engaging readers in nuanced discussions about the intersection of technology, innovation, and diplomacy. It fosters a spirit of collaboration beyond national borders and geopolitical alignment. According to the book, India and Taiwan can leverage their strengths through S&TD to forge a prosperous and interconnected future.
The book draws from a blend of technopolitical system analysis and economic interdependence while offering critical perspectives for academicians analyzing the intersectionality of India’s foreign policy, digital technological landscape and global diplomacy. The case studies focused on the semiconductor industry, health governance and the adoption, competition and diplomacy in the context of 5G technology. The book is a scholarly indulgence and a call for deeper engagement in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape where S&TD plays an increasingly crucial role in international relations. This book is essential for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in the intersection of technology, global diplomacy, and international relations theory.