Global Geopolitical Series: Tensions rising between China and Taiwan

Tensions are rising between China and Taiwan, with threats coming from China at alarming frequency both from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Chinese rear admiral Lou Yuan, who suggested that the disputes over the East and South China Sea could easily be resolved by sinking two U.S. aircraft carriers operating in the region. Admiral Lou added, “If the US naval fleet dares to stop in Taiwan, it is time for the People’s Liberation Army to deploy troops to promote national unity on the island". The admiral added that a confrontation with Taiwan in the near future is possible. Retired General Wang Hongguang added, “Achieving China’s complete unity is a necessary requirement. The achievement of the past 40 years of reform and opening-up has given us the capability and confidence to safeguard our sovereignty. Those who are trying to stir up trouble in the South China Sea and Taiwan should be careful about their future. The PLA is capable of taking over Taiwan within 100 hours with only a few dozen casualties".

Earlier this week, President Xi Jinping added to admirals’ harsh rhetoric suggesting that China reserves the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control but will strive to achieve peaceful reunification with the self-ruled island that will have a bright future under Chinese rule. He added that Taiwan must accept the one-China principle and accept that it is a part of China.    

After President Xi’s speech where he voiced support for ‘one country, two systems’ approach like Hong Kong for Taiwan, Taiwanese pro-independent President Tsai Ing-wen hits back at Chinese President saying that the island would never accept reunification with China on Beijing’s terms, “I want to reiterate that Taiwan will never accept 'one country, two systems'. The vast majority of Taiwanese public opinion also resolutely opposes 'one country, two systems', and this is also the Taiwan consensus."

After coming to office, U.S. President Donald Trump rejected the notion that Taiwan is an integral part of China but that might change depending on how the trade deal comes along and it could be part of a broader strategic agreement.