TAIPEI, Taiwan – Recent polling data reveal that over 80 percent of respondents believe Taiwan’s foreign relations will improve under President Lai Ching-te’s leadership. The survey also indicates strong support for the “comprehensive diplomacy” strategy advocated by Foreign Minister Lin Jialong.
On August 28, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) released the results of a public satisfaction survey concerning diplomatic efforts in the first 100 days since President Lai assumed office. The findings show that 83 percent of participants are optimistic about the future of Taiwan’s international relations, with nearly 60 percent expressing satisfaction with the president’s approach to foreign relations and key appointments.
Furthermore, the survey highlights that more than 80 percent of individuals back the “comprehensive diplomacy” initiative as detailed by Minister Lin. The three primary components of this strategy also received significant endorsement: “value diplomacy” garnered 82 percent support, “economic and trade diplomacy” reached 89 percent, and “alliance diplomacy” achieved an 84 percent approval rate.
Additional insights from the poll show robust backing for various initiatives promoted by Minister Lin, including “Digital New Southbound,” the “Rongbang Plan,” and advocacy for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, all exceeding 75 percent support. Notably, more than 90 percent of respondents endorsed efforts for international participation, while “Digital New Southbound” and the “Rongbang Plan” enjoyed support rates of 86.4 percent and 75 percent, respectively.
Around 78 percent of participants expressed approval for the new “Economic Diplomacy Working Group” established by the Executive Yuan, aimed at ensuring cohesive diplomatic efforts across ministries. The concept of “everyone is a diplomat” gained even higher endorsement, with 87 percent agreeing with the notion of people-to-people diplomacy.
The survey also assessed public satisfaction with MOFA’s passport and consular services. Results indicate that nearly 90 percent of respondents are satisfied with the convenience and functionality of Taiwan’s passports, while 77 percent are pleased with the consular services provided. Furthermore, almost 85 percent believe that the number of visa-free countries reflects international acknowledgment of Taiwan’s democratic principles and economic capabilities, highlighting the success of the government’s diplomatic strategy.
This public opinion survey, conducted by a reputable research firm between August 16 and 20, 2024, utilized stratified random sampling through local phone interviews, capturing insights from 1,596 individuals aged 20 and above across 22 regions. The results can be considered reliable within a confidence level of 95 percent, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.45 percent.
