Slovakia-Taiwan relations: Slovakia’s pragmatic approach as a model of engagement with Taiwan

This article examines the evolution of Slovakia-Taiwan relations, focusing on the early 2020s (specifically 2020–2023), a period marked by a shift toward closer ties. Despite adhering to the One China policy, Slovakia has strengthened its engagement with Taiwan, driven by both regional and domestic factors. Regionally, the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region’s disillusionment with unmet Chinese economic promises has led to a pivot toward alternative partnerships, including Taiwan. Domestically, Slovakia’s 2020 government shift introduced a more Taiwan-receptive policy, aligning with the EU and NATO’s cautious approach to China. The analysis highlights Slovakia’s adoption of a low-visibility, pragmatic model that contrasts with the high-profile symbolic approaches of fellow CEE ‘vanguard’ states (the most active players in political interactions with Taiwan) like Czechia and Lithuania. Slovakia’s strategy involves pursuing a ‘positive’ agenda with Taiwan with minimal public attention, redirecting criticisms of China to parliamentary channels and conducting symbolic actions vis-à-vis China. While this approach reduces risks of Chinese backlash and minimises domestic politicisation, it also limits public awareness and support. Nonetheless, the Slovakia-Taiwan relationship has seen tangible, durable gains. Slovakia’s approach offers a viable blueprint for other states interested in engaging with Taiwan without provoking China.