Background on Taiwan Strait and China’s Claims
The Taiwan Strait, a narrow waterway separating mainland China and the island of Taiwan, is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. China claims Taiwan as its territory and considers the strait part of its sovereign waters. However, the US and other countries view the strait as international waters open for navigation.
Recent Military Activities and China’s Response
On September 12, the US Navy destroyer Higgins and the British Royal Navy frigate Richmond passed through the Taiwan Strait, causing “annoyance and disturbances,” according to Chinese military spokesperson Colonel Shi Yi.
In response, China’s military “organized naval and air forces to track and monitor their passage,” as stated in a Chinese military statement, warning that such actions “undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”
China’s Increasing Pressure on Taiwan
Over the past few years, China has intensified its military, economic, and diplomatic pressure on the democratic island of Taiwan. China has not ruled out using force to eventually take control of Taiwan.
- Military Presence: Taiwan’s military has reported a growing presence of Chinese naval vessels, drones, and military aircraft in its territory.
- Large-scale Military Exercises: China has conducted extensive military exercises near Taiwan, raising concerns about potential conflict.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Taiwan Strait? The Taiwan Strait is a narrow waterway separating mainland China and the island of Taiwan, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
- Why is the Taiwan Strait significant? The strait is crucial for international shipping, and both China and other countries, including the US, have differing claims over its status as international or Chinese territorial waters.
- What recent events have escalated tensions? The passage of US and UK military ships through the Taiwan Strait, along with China’s new aircraft carrier conducting tests in the same area, have heightened tensions.
- What is China’s stance on Taiwan? China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and considers the Taiwan Strait as Chinese waters. They have increased military, economic, and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, not ruling out the use of force.
- How has Taiwan responded to China’s actions? Taiwan’s military has reported a growing Chinese military presence, including vessels, drones, and aircraft, as well as large-scale military exercises near the island.
