如何解析臺灣得以在中美洲，比其他區域更能維持正式外交承認關係 的情況？本文認為貿易、援助及投資是臺灣施展外交實力的助力，同時區 域跨政府組織也是提供臺灣維繫外交關係的強大資本。即便中國仍持續採 取孤立臺灣外交空間的政策，但透過對中美洲外交的經驗來看，這依舊是 臺灣未來避免受到孤立的途徑。

What explains Taiwan5s ability to hold onto formal diplomatic recognition in Central America compared to most other regions? We contend that trade as well as aid and investments have assisted Taiwan’s efforts, while regional intergovernmental organizations provide Taiwan’s strongest asset in maintaining diplomatic relations. Chinese efforts to isolate Taiwan’s diplomatic space will continue, but building on lessons from Central America suggests means for Taiwan to prevent further isolation.