Taiwan President Tsai Ingwen’s transit through the US has sparked a strong response from China, which has threatened retaliation during her visit. The US, meanwhile, maintains that it is routine and consistent with longstanding policy. Tsai’s transit in New York and Los Angeles comes ahead of her official mission to Central America, but China views such meetings as support for Taiwan’s independence.
China’s threat towards the US
China has warned the US against any action viewed as threatening Taiwan, arguing that it is its territory and part of the One China Principle. In an apparent reference to Tsai’s transit in the US, Chinese officials have warned against any meetings with US officials that could be seen as support for Taiwan’s independence. They have not identified specific responses but have warned of “countermeasures” and “concrete actions.”
Taiwan’s defense response
Taiwan has defended its right to connect with the world, stating that external pressure won’t deter them from engaging with international society. President Tsai has argued that their efforts aim solely to improve the nation and its people’s livelihoods. Despite this bold stance taken by Tsai, experts suggest that the island’s status is increasingly fragile amid tensions between the US and China.
US-China relations at a low point
The relationship between the US and China is under extreme pressure in light of recent events such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s postponed trip to Beijing last month. The discovery of a Chinese spy balloon further strained relations between the two countries as well. Nevertheless, the Biden administration continues to hold diplomatic discussions with Beijing about Tsai’s visit at various levels.
Dueling trips
Taiwan’s governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) criticized former President Ma Yingjeou’s visit to China given its timing with Honduras’ shift toward Beijing. Ma emphasized the shared ethnic identity between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. That said, such trips are meaningful but experts suggest they are not expected to drastically alter Taiwanese politics.
China’s reaction
China opposes the meeting between Tsai and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which it views as an attempt to seek support from anti-China forces in the US. It comes as Beijing establishes diplomatic ties with Honduras, straining Taiwan’s position in Central America. The PRC has been tracking Tsai’s visit and what is said during her meetings with US lawmakers who may be more unpredictable than Tsai herself. The response to tough talk could provoke China into taking action sooner while creating a scenario that the US wants to prevent.
Taiwan seeks diplomatic partnerships
Taiwan is seeking to shore up its diplomatic partnerships, which have dwindled in number since Beijing started blocking it from participating in international organizations. Now, only thirteen countries have official relations with Taiwan while they maintain defacto, but non-official diplomatic relations with many Western nations including the United States. However, the pressure on Taiwan is expected to heighten as its next presidential election approaches in January.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Tsai’s transit through US territories has not only generated controversy within China but internationally due to its delicate timing and its potential impact on Taiwan’s international relations standings. As such, it is important for all countries involved to act with sensitivity and caution so that the situation does not escalate into a more significant conflict.
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