Taiwan: January 16th elections were held

Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), won 56% of the vote on Saturday the 16th. The DPP is the main pro-independence party and will control the legislature for the first time. All experts predict a new course for the island, especially regarding relations with China.

Context

DPP and Tsai Ing-wen are known to be  personally anti-Chinese. She was educated in the US and UK. After elections Tsai Ing-wen promised to finish the “old politics of intimidation and confrontation” but it is not clear what she means.
There is a more radical wing of the DDP that looking for full sovereignty and independence, but the leader herself is searching out a moderate position.

According to a 2014 government poll, 70% of Taiwan’s population supports self-rule but without official independence.
But recently we have seen the artificial manipulation of the anti-Chinese rhetoric in Taiwan. The Sunflower Movement led by students, organized an action in front of the presidential office. They are protesting against a potential trade bill with China, negotiated by the Kuomintang - the nationalist party now out of power.

The gender of this election's winner is also an interesting topic for discussion, because Ing-wen is the first female president of Taiwan. Taiwan's society was traditionally was patriarchal. This means the erosion of the identity that can turn to another social spheres. Now it seems there a serious shift in the leadership of Asian countries. Presidents of South Korea and Myanmar are women too.

Reaction

The west is describing the present situation with neither any criticism nor euphoria. The US State Department noted: "We also congratulate the people on Taiwan for once again demonstrating the strength of their robust democratic system, which will now undergo another peaceful transition of power". Also there was hope "to advance our many common interests and further strengthen the unofficial relationship between the United States and the people on Taiwan".
Beijing already said that it that respects the result of the elections and is interested in continued relations.

Balance of interests

In all probability, Taiwan will continue cooperation with China because of the needs of its economy. Also, the new president is looking for technical development in underdeveloped areas of Taiwan, and Beijing is good partner for this.
Taiwan is not a member of the U.N, so there are many deals with many actors going in particular and divergent ways. It will be a test for the new president, how she will adopt the power system of Taiwan to the new complex situation in the region and international law.

Taiwan
Elections
China