James Moriarty Urges Strong Deterrent Against China’s Anti-Secession Law
James Moriarty, the former chairman of the American Institute in Taiwan, highlighted the urgent need to counter China’s 2005 Anti-Secession Law, describing it as “a ticking time bomb.” Speaking at a seminar in Washington, co-hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies and Taiwan’s Prospect Foundation, Moriarty explained that the law provides Beijing with a justification to use force against Taiwan, which he termed “horrible.”
The Anti-Secession Law, enacted in 2005, outlines the conditions under which China might use “nonpeaceful means” to unify Taiwan. It was introduced during the presidency of Chen Shui-bian from Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party, in response to actions perceived as provocative by Beijing. Moriarty noted that while the law was created amid concerns about Taiwan changing the status quo, the situation has evolved, with Taiwan’s independence movement losing momentum despite the DPP’s continued governance.
Moriarty expressed skepticism about the possibility of Taiwan peacefully reuniting with China, emphasizing the need to counter the notion that China can use force at will. He pointed out that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s centralized control has made China more unpredictable, and Xi is more willing to address the Taiwan issue than his predecessors.
“Given these circumstances, the only option we have is to establish the strongest possible deterrent as swiftly as we can,” Moriarty concluded.
Doubts Revealed
James Moriarty -: James Moriarty is a person who used to be the chairman of the American Institute in Taiwan. This means he was an important person who helped manage the relationship between the USA and Taiwan.
American Institute in Taiwan -: The American Institute in Taiwan is like an embassy for the USA in Taiwan. It helps the two countries talk to each other and work together.
Anti-Secession Law -: The Anti-Secession Law is a rule made by China in 2005. It says that China can use force if Taiwan tries to become a separate country.
Deterrent -: A deterrent is something that stops someone from doing something bad. In this case, it means making sure China doesn’t use force against Taiwan.
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island near China. Some people in Taiwan want it to be its own country, but China thinks it should be part of China.
Xi Jinping -: Xi Jinping is the leader of China. He makes important decisions for the country and is known for being a strong and sometimes unpredictable leader.
