Taiwan's Balkan option: A new chapter in Republic of China ‘dollar diplomacy’

This article examines evolving relations between the Republic of China on Taiwan (ROC) and the Balkan states (namely, Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Yugoslavia and its successor states), paying particular attention to the post-1989 period. It argues that during the first decade following the end of the Cold War Taipei - despite its intent - failed to capitalize on the systemic changes in the Balkans due to its limited interest in expanding trade with this region and the Balkans’ friendship with China, which precluded any official or semiofficial communication with the ROC. The establishment of diplomatic relations with Macedonia in January 1999 marked a breakthrough in Taipei's efforts in the Balkans and Europe and validated the continued effectiveness of the ROC's ‘dollar diplomacy’ vis-à-vis small and impoverished countries. However, the ROC's long-term presence and influence in the Balkans remain uncertain.