Taiwan-China Conflict, and Australia’s Stand

Overview

Taiwan-China is in an ongoing conflict regarding the claim of the land. Countries like USA, Australia and japan stand in support with the Taiwan’s which is causing distress and issues with the respective countries. This article focuses on the facts and statements that follow Australia’s stand and it’s consequences.

Background

Taiwan is a self ruled country in East Asia. It is an island approximately 100 miles away from the coast of south east China. It is a democracy and has its own constitution. China considers Taiwan as a province that will eventually be under Beijing’s control. Historically speaking, the island was part of the Chinese mainland in 17th century. China speaks out on this and sees Taiwan belonging to the Chinese.

Current Status

China’s President Xi Jinping has said “reunification” with Taiwan “must be fulfilled” and the possible use of force and military has not been ruled to achieve this. Relations between Taiwan and China seem to have further deteriorated sharply following Ms Pelosi’s visit, which Beijing condemned. China is holding its biggest-ever show of military force in the air and seas around Taiwan, including the firing of ballistic missiles. USA, Australia, Japan urge China to cease military exercises around the island.

Australia’s Support

Chinese Embassy justifies its acts and warns Australians against their involvement in the conflict. Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong joined Antony Blinken and Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa in condemning China’s exercises. The Australian Government said the military activity was an overreaction and it was disproportionate to the controversial visit of Ms Pelosi. Andrew Hastie, Shadow Defence Minister of Australia commented, “If there was a conflict around Taiwan, whether we’re involved directly or indirectly on the l periphery, we would certainly be in the gun. That’s why we need to build our deterrence strength, that’s why we need to exercise exceptional political leadership, diplomatic leadership.” Majority of Australians would support US in war with China over Taiwan. China called out Australia and asked not to “finger point”. Sky news political editor, Andrew Clennell said that Australian government’s approach has been not to comment publicly on the issue in hand, “But the government is concerned about the activities that have occurred in retaliation and that something might go astray”. Mr Hastie asserted that he supported Australia’s efforts to increase its diplomatic influence and deterrent power. If a nation is attacked by a foreign invader, it must be ready to defend its neighbours. He also said, “Because if I don’t stand up for other countries, who is going to stand up for me? Australia is all in and ready to back Taiwan up and ‘in the gun’ as dispute with China over Taiwan escalates.

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Conclusion

Taiwan is an important part of the world when it comes to economy. Much of the world’s electronic equipment is powered by computer chips made in Taiwan. Countries like Australia support Taiwan for humanitarian as well as personal advantages. Australia has a substantial relationship with Taiwan including trade and investment, education, tourism and people-to-people ties.