Link to article: https://apnews.com/article/china-navy-us-pacific-taiwan-2ea75e139483164b93d287a4efae74c9?utm_source=copy&utm_medium=share
At the Western Pacific Naval Symposium in Qingdao, China, Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia of the Central Military Commission delivered a strong message asserting China’s willingness to use force to defend its territorial interests. He emphasized China’s stance on territorial sovereignty and its readiness to defend against provocation, particularly regarding Taiwan. Zhang’s remarks reflect China’s unilateralist approach to maritime disputes and military conflicts, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s policies. The gathering also saw discussions between Chinese and Russian naval officials, highlighting their cooperation despite global geopolitical tensions.
My previous regional report was from Taiwan’s perspective, and how they have also been bolstering their defenses. Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia’s statement is likely the cause of this. Taiwan’s support from their allies has been lessening, which seems to be emboldening China. This does beg the question; will China attack even though the US said they won’t let them without retribution? Regardless of how confident China is, the threat from the US is very real. China’s cooperation with Russia also raises some eyebrows, since they don’t like the US very much right now. This could be hinting at possible collaboration in the future between the two states? Not much to go on right now, so only time will tell.
Is China retaking Taiwan even worth it? Though the risks are high the rewards are great. There has been plenty of pushback from other countries, but taking Taiwan could mean dismantling the wall of enemy islands boxing them in one by one. Also Taiwan’s exports are extremely valuable. But the threat from the US comes to mind. Regardless of the US’ internal political climate as of recent, the US is still the world hegemon. How will China deal with not only the hegemon, but Taiwan’s foreign terrain in the event of an invasion? The islands boxing them in have the potential to stop them from trading by sea if they really wanted to. A liberal would probably try to find some middle ground or diplomatic solution, while realists would likely answer this question with war and dominance.