Xin Qiang, Yin Bo，On “ Parliamentary Diplomacy” of the Taiwan Authority，Taiwan Research Journal，No.4，2023

Abstract: Over the years, the legislature in Taiwan region has been actively engaging in theso-called “ parliamentary diplomacy” , and it has played an important role in assisting the Taiwanauthority in conducting foreign relations and expanding their “ international space ” . This paperbegins by analyzing the actors involved in “ parliamentary diplomacy ” from an institutionalperspective. Specifically, it focuses on “ the Legislative Yuan” leadership, standing committeessuch as “ Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee ” , and informal organizations like“ parliamentary friendship groups” . Then, this paper takes a functional perspective to examine themajor intentions and effects of “ parliamentary diplomacy” by emphasizing its role in strengthening“ diplomatic ties ” , fostering substantive relations with “ non - diplomatic allies ” , enhancing“ international participation ” , and expanding its so - called “ international space ” . Drawing onTaiwan's legislative practices in foreign engagement during Tsai Ing - wen's tenure, the studyidentifies four key features of “ parliamentary diplomacy” : first, it establishes a differential andhierarchical pattern to target primarily “ non - diplomatic allies” . Second, it coordinates with theexecutive branch to achieve the so - called “ diplomatic breakthroughs”. Third, it encourages theunique role of “ Legislator's Friendship Associations ” and other quasi - official and informalgroups. Fourth, it becomes a crucial approach to indirectly expanding substantive foreign relationswith the cooperation of international “ pro-Taiwan” forces.

Keywords: the Taiwan authority, “ Legislative Yuan” , “ Parliamentary Diplomacy”