There is no doubt that this month's presidential election is being watched closely around the world, simply because of its implications for cross-strait relations - and thus its likely effect on the temper of the world's most populous nation.
But what is particularly curious about this campaign is the frequency of foreign faces, and the appeals to foreign opinion, popping up along the way. The KMT-led alliance says foreigners and foreign governments prefer its line because it means stability in cross-strait relations, which will restore foreign diplomatic and business confidence in the island.
The line of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is that foreigners love democracy and are applauding the DPP's democratic credentials. Thus a vote for them is a vote for democracy, the international community's favourite flavour of government.
Of course, when it comes down to counting ballots on March 20, it is irrelevant who the international community prefers. What might be relevant is how voters perceive the preference of the international community - even though the election is dominated by domestic, rather than international, issues.
Even the most uneducated voter understands the importance of the international economy to Taiwan's own export-driven economy. So, getting the thumbs-up from a foreigner here and there is a boost to the credentials of either campaign.
The KMT led off, holding a tea party for foreign media and diplomats early in the campaign to launch its foreign policy white paper. The paper was fluff, but it was a great chance for Lien Chan and other KMT leaders to shake hands with lots of foreigners and show off their exemplary English. A week later, an opposition TV commercial used English titles to show itself as better equipped to deal with foreign relations.
