- Taiwan’s defense ministry asserts the Taiwan Strait is outside China’s sovereignty.
- US State Department’s update on Taiwan’s independence sparks new diplomatic questions.
- Taiwan is already operating with de facto independence despite limited global recognition.
- China continues military incursions near Taiwan, raising concerns about regional stability.
- Taiwan’s international recognition is limited to just 12 countries.
Taiwan’s defense ministry firmly rejected China’s claims over the Taiwan Strait, declaring it “not within the scope of China’s sovereignty.” The ministry highlighted that the Taiwan Strait is an international waterway vital for global shipping and trade. Any attempts by China to create instability in the region would endanger global security, according to the ministry’s statement on Monday.
The ongoing tensions over Taiwan’s sovereignty have been escalating, with China increasing its military presence near the island. The US State Department recently revised its Taiwan-related pages, omitting a previous statement that it does not support Taiwan’s formal independence, signaling potential changes in US policy regarding Taiwan.
Taiwan’s De Facto Independence
Taiwan has operated as a de facto independent state for several decades, even though it lacks full international recognition. The island’s government controls its own territory, military, currency, and issues passports to its citizens. Taiwan conducts elections, and its citizens are free to travel globally using the Republic of China (ROC) passport. Despite this, Taiwan’s sovereignty is not widely recognized, as most countries recognize the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the legitimate government of China.
The island maintains diplomatic relations with only 12 countries, mostly small nations, and despite this, Taiwan continues to maintain a strong informal presence on the global stage. The US severed formal ties with Taiwan in 1979, yet remains bound by law to assist Taiwan in maintaining its defense capabilities under the Taiwan Relations Act.
Tension in the Taiwan Strait Grows
The Taiwan Strait has become increasingly tense as China steps up its military incursions into Taiwan’s air defense zone. These actions have raised concerns about Beijing’s intentions toward Taiwan. Satellite images show the rapid construction of new military barges at Guangzhou Shipyard. This fuels speculation about potential amphibious landing operations. Despite this, the Pentagon claims China isn’t yet ready for a full invasion.
In response, Taiwan has ramped up defense exercises, highlighting its missile boats and anti-ship missile systems. Taiwan’s government insists it is prepared to defend its territory from any aggression. The military drills focus on stabilizing the region and countering potential threats, especially from China. Taiwan aims to demonstrate its readiness in the face of increasing tensions.
Meanwhile, the US has shifted its stance on Taiwan. The US State Department recently updated its Taiwan page, removing the previous statement about not supporting Taiwan’s independence. This change has led to questions about Washington’s position on Taiwan’s sovereignty. However, the US still adheres to the “One China” policy, which acknowledges the PRC as China’s sole legitimate government.
Taiwan’s Independence: Fact or Fiction?
Taiwan operates with de facto independence, even if most nations do not formally recognize it as a separate nation. Taiwan’s government controls its territory and exercises sovereignty in practice, without the need for formal declarations of independence. The situation in Taiwan remains delicate, with the island facing constant pressure from China.
The question of whether Taiwan should formally declare independence remains complex. Taiwan’s constitution requires significant amendments and public support before such a declaration could be made. A change in Taiwan’s formal status would need a supermajority in parliament, a process complicated by political division between Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the opposition Kuomintang (KMT).
Taiwan and China: Ongoing Tensions
In 2005, China passed the Anti-Secession Law. This law provides a legal basis for military intervention if Taiwan declares independence. It also mandates that China will take all necessary measures to prevent Taiwan from seceding. However, the law’s specifics remain unclear, and Taiwan hasn’t taken steps toward formal independence.
Despite the law, Taiwan continues to maintain its current status. Most Taiwanese citizens prefer the status quo. They are not actively seeking independence, despite ongoing pressure from China to reunify. The situation remains delicate, with China determined to reclaim Taiwan, while Taiwan asserts its de facto independence.
The Taiwan issue is critical for both regional and global security. The international community is divided on how to handle it. However, the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait remains undeniable. Major powers, especially the US, continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Taiwan.