The Taiwan issue: A test of Sino‐U.S. relations

The available literature has overwhelmingly focused on the Taiwan issue as an obstacle and highlighted its negative role within the Sino‐U.S. relationship. Despite their historically sensitive and often acrimonious relations, it is still a puzzle why China and the United States continue their positive engagement and cooperation. We hope to contribute to the existing literature by systematically examining how and to what extent the Taiwan issue has influenced the Sino‐U.S. relationship. Therefore, this article examines the nature of Sino‐U.S. relations from perceptional, domestic, and international behavioral levels as observed through their reactions to the Taiwan problem. We argue that similarities between Chinese and American perceptions, relatively stable or peace‐favored domestic factors, as well as often restrained and cooperative behaviors by the two great powers may result in improved ties and greater regional stability and harmony. We conclude that despite its apparent negative impact, the sensitive Taiwan issue will not lead the overall Sino‐U.S. relationship into a state of comprehensive confrontation.