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China-Taiwan Tensions In A Geopolitic Perspective
Written by Maryati
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The Chinese government's efforts to realize the One China Policy are still hampered by the problem of Taiwan. The western countries stance behind Taiwan is indeed a challenge for Beijing.
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen recently stressed that she would not submit to and become part of mainland China. This statement will not only strain relations with China, but may also encourage the western countries behind Taiwan to increase their support.
Taiwan President Tsai Ing-Wen in her October 10, 2021 speech, stressed that she would defend sovereignty and democracy in her territory. The first female president since 1996i stressed that there was no turning back to safeguard Taiwan's sovereignty.
Tsai Ing-Wen's assertion, delivered in a speech at the commemoration of Taiwan's National Day, came after Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to realize China's peaceful reunification. Ironically, the promise of peaceful reunification was revealed during a fairly large and provocative military exercise, by flying a number of fighter jets. There was even a practice landing on the beach not far from the island of Taiwan.
Along with the tension, it was reported that the commander of the Taiwan army, Hsu Yen-pu, had visited the United States. Meanwhile, several European countries have also shown their support for Taiwan, both in the form of political rhetoric and displays of war power.
Regarding the escalation of tension in Taiwan-China relations and the attention of foreign countries towards Taiwan, it can actually be seen from the geographical position of the country. The island of Taiwan, located not far from mainland China, makes it a strategic point in terms of Indo-Pacific geopolitics. For China, reunification is ideal because by unifying Taiwan, Beijing will have a strategic point in the Pacific for its defense. As for the United States, as well as Japan, the existence and independence of Taiwan is important, related to the security and geopolitical strategy of the Pacific region.
