Link: https://www.rt.com/news/612858-china-us-taiwan-wording/
The State Department dropped a statement that previously included the phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence.” In addition, the updated fact sheet highlighted Taipei’s collaboration with the Pentagon on technology and semiconductor projects. It also affirmed US support for the island’s participation in international organizations “where applicable,” dropping the words “where statehood is not a requirement.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described the revisions as a “big step backwards that sends a seriously wrong message to Taiwan independence separatist forces. This is yet another example of the United States’ stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of ‘using Taiwan to suppress China’. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes,” A State Department spokesperson said that, “as is routine, the fact sheet was updated to inform the general public about our unofficial relationship with Taiwan. Washington remains committed to its One-China policy. We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side,”
This article is important because it shows how the new Trump Administration is pushing for a harder rhetoric against China. As the article shows, the United States is modifying the way it treats both its allies and its perceived adversaries. This could also have major implications in how China treats Taiwan and could increase China’s Maritime activity in the region. It also shows how the new administration is putting an emphasis on increasing relations with Taiwan and maintaining dominance in the region.
This relates to what we learned in class because it shows how the United States is moving into more of a role of offshore balancing; taking a backseat in international affairs and only involving itself in events it seems absolutely necessary to intervene in. This shows how the Trump era of United States history could have long lasting impacts on its standing in regions all over the world.