China’s Influence in Taiwan Waters Faces Global Pushback
China’s attempts to expand its influence in the waters around Taiwan are meeting strong international resistance, according to Taiwan’s National Security Bureau (NSB). The NSB reported to the Legislative Yuan that China’s activities in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas have led to international responses. The strategic rivalry between the US and China remains unchanged, with the US closely monitoring China’s “gray zone” strategies in the Indo-Pacific and supporting the current situation in the Taiwan Strait.
China continues to assert its stance on Taiwan, emphasizing its right to enforce laws in the South China Sea and attempting to marginalize the US in ongoing issues. To counter US strategies, China has stopped discussions on arms control with the US. Chinese President Xi Jinping is preparing for potential naval conflicts and developing modern sea and air defenses. China has expanded its jurisdiction with laws like China Coast Guard Regulation No. 3, allowing the Coast Guard to board and detain vessels in contested waters.
In the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has upgraded coastal airports and conducted military exercises, increasing pressure on Taiwan. The PLA has entered restricted waters near Taiwan’s islands and used small speedboats to broaden “gray zone” tactics. In the East China Sea, the PLA sent armed vessels to the Diaoyutai Islands and patrolled Japan’s Ryukyu Islands, deploying an intelligence aircraft in Japan’s airspace.
In the South China Sea, the PLA conducted joint naval exercises with Russia and engaged in contentious actions against the Philippine Coast Guard. In response, the US and allies emphasize peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, opposing China’s provocations. The US has strengthened ties with Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, and through alliances like AUKUS and the Quad. European countries are also voicing concerns by conducting transits through the Taiwan Strait and participating in joint military exercises.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan Waters -: Taiwan Waters refers to the sea area surrounding the island of Taiwan. It is important because it is a busy route for ships and has many natural resources.
Global Pushback -: Global Pushback means that many countries around the world are opposing or resisting something. In this case, they are opposing China’s actions near Taiwan.
National Security Bureau -: The National Security Bureau is a government agency in Taiwan. It is responsible for protecting the country’s safety and security.
Gray Zone Strategies -: Gray Zone Strategies are actions that are not quite war but are more aggressive than normal peaceful activities. They are used to gain advantage without starting a full conflict.
Status Quo -: Status Quo means keeping things the way they currently are. In this context, it refers to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
South China Sea -: The South China Sea is a large sea in Asia, surrounded by countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It is important for trade and has many natural resources.
PLA -: PLA stands for the People’s Liberation Army, which is the military force of China. It includes the army, navy, and air force.
Indo-Pacific Region -: The Indo-Pacific Region is a large area that includes the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean. It is important for trade and security.
