Meaning: The quote provided is from Chen Shui-bian, a prominent Taiwanese politician who served as the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) from 2000 to 2008. The quote reflects his views on the relationship between Taiwan and mainland China, specifically regarding the Taiwan Strait, which separates the two territories.

Chen Shui-bian's statement highlights his belief that the desire for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is not only shared by the people living on both sides but is also the common expectation of the United States, Japan, and the international community as a whole. This quote encapsulates the complex dynamics and geopolitical significance of the Taiwan Strait and the broader relationships between Taiwan, mainland China, and other major global powers.

The Taiwan Strait has been a contentious and sensitive issue in international relations for decades. Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, has been governed separately from mainland China since the Chinese Civil War in 1949. The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. On the other hand, Taiwan operates as a democratic and self-governing entity with its own government, military, and economy.

Chen Shui-bian's statement reflects the aspirations of many Taiwanese people for peace and stability in the region. The historical and political context of the Taiwan Strait has led to ongoing tensions and occasional military posturing, making the pursuit of peace a crucial and often elusive goal. The desire for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of conflict resonates not only with the people directly affected but also with the broader international community.

The involvement of the United States and Japan in the issue adds a layer of complexity to the Taiwan Strait dynamics. Both countries have significant strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and have historically supported Taiwan as a counterbalance to China's influence. The U.S., in particular, has maintained a policy of "strategic ambiguity" regarding its stance on Taiwan's sovereignty, providing both diplomatic and military support while officially recognizing the "One China" policy, which acknowledges Beijing's claim to Taiwan.

Chen Shui-bian's inclusion of the U.S. and Japan in his statement underscores the interconnectedness of regional powers and their stakes in the stability of the Taiwan Strait. The international community, including major stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region, has a vested interest in maintaining peaceful relations and preventing any escalation of tensions between Taiwan and mainland China.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the perspective of Chen Shui-bian as a statesman who was deeply involved in navigating the complexities of Taiwan's relationship with mainland China and the broader international community during his presidency. His views on the common expectation for peace and stability articulate the aspirations and hopes of many in Taiwan and resonate with those who prioritize peaceful resolution of conflicts and the avoidance of military confrontation.

In conclusion, Chen Shui-bian's quote encapsulates the aspirations for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing that these desires are not only shared by the people directly involved but also represent the common expectation of major global powers and the broader international community. The complexities of the Taiwan-China relationship and the involvement of influential countries such as the United States and Japan underscore the significance of achieving peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of conflict in the region.