The negative impact of Beijing’s refusal to allow democracy in Hong Kong and the protest demonstrations by pro-reformers is prompting Taiwan to reassess its growing economic ties with China. Taipei is openly courting Australia to forge a free trade agreement, and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott seems receptive to the idea. Beijing claims to own Taiwan and tries to limit its trade partners’ dealings with the island nation. But over 80% of Taiwanese want to keep their independence, and the rejection of democracy in Hong Kong has reinforced the conviction among islanders they must find counterweights to Beijing’s influence.
