BEIJING: Amidst rising tensions, China reiterated its steadfast commitment to its claim over Taiwan, asserting it would “never compromise” on the island’s status.
The declaration was made during recent defence talks at the Pentagon, where Chinese officials called on the United States to halt military aid to Taiwan and oppose its pursuit of independence.
The discussions come just days before Taiwan’s crucial elections, garnering global attention due to the potential impact on the island’s relationship with an assertive China.
Taiwan, viewed by China as part of its territory, has long been a contentious issue, with Beijing consistently expressing its determination to reunify with the self-ruled island. The latest defence talks underscore the sensitivity surrounding Taiwan’s political status and the delicate balance both nations must navigate.
The United States, while maintaining its commitment to the “One China” policy, has provided military aid to Taiwan, a move repeatedly criticized by Beijing. The renewed calls to cease such support and oppose Taiwanese independence indicate China’s unyielding stance, emphasizing that it will not back down on the Taiwan question.
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The ongoing military discussions between China and the US highlight persistent points of friction, including the South China Sea. Tensions in the contested waterway have escalated recently, marked by rival drills and standoffs.
China urged the US to halt “provocative actions” in the South China Sea, while Washington emphasized the importance of respecting freedom of navigation.
The US-China relationship, though recently described as successful following a meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, continues to face challenges. The defence talks addressed issues beyond Taiwan, delving into maritime and air security concerns. The US emphasized its commitment to high seas freedom of navigation in response to Chinese “harassment” against lawfully operating vessels in the South China Sea.
As both nations navigate their complex relationship, the defence talks aimed to maintain open lines of military-to-military communication, emphasizing the need to prevent competition from escalating into conflict. China expressed its willingness to develop “healthy and stable” military relations with the U.S., provided the latter addresses China’s concerns.
The outcome of Taiwan’s elections remains uncertain, and the global community watches closely as the island grapples with political choices that could shape its future relations with an assertive China. The unyielding stances presented in the recent defence talks highlight the ongoing challenges in this complex geopolitical landscape.
