U.S. Diplomat Urges China to Abandon Threats Against Taiwan

Raymond Greene, the Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), emphasized the need for China to cease its military threats and pressure against Taiwan. Speaking on a Taiwanese political talk show, Greene stated that open dialogue with Taiwan's leaders is essential for avoiding misunderstandings and stabilizing relations across the Taiwan Strait. He reiterated that the United States consistently supports exchanges between Taiwan and China, advocating for communication with all political parties in Taiwan, particularly those elected by the Taiwanese populace.

The Straits TimesTaipei TimesChina should abandon threats against Taiwan, US diplomat says By Reuters

China views Taiwan as a part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control over the island. The Taiwanese government, led by President Lai Ching-te, firmly rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims. Recently, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of Taiwan's largest opposition party, the Kuomintang, during her visit to China, which she described as a "mission of peace." Despite this, the Chinese military has maintained a continuous presence around Taiwan, heightening tensions in the region.

China should abandon threats against Taiwan, US diplomat says By ReutersThe Straits TimesTaipei Times

Taiwan's opposition party, which holds a majority in parliament, has stalled military spending plans, including a proposed $40 billion special defense budget aimed at enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities with U.S. arms. Greene underscored that while the U.S. supports dialogue, it cannot replace the necessity for deterrence. He articulated that a robust deterrence capability would facilitate a more balanced dialogue between Taiwan and China, stating, “If there is sufficient deterrence capability, it will lead to a more equal dialogue.”

Taipei Times

Greene outlined three potential approaches to resolving cross-strait differences: dialogue, coercion, and war. He posited that if Taiwan can establish sufficient deterrence, it could effectively remove the option of war from consideration. This perspective highlights the complex interplay between military readiness and diplomatic engagement in the region.

Taipei Times

Greene's remarks reflect a broader U.S. strategy of supporting Taiwan amid rising tensions with China. He called for China to abandon its threats and military pressure, asserting that such actions would contribute to easing cross-strait tensions. The Chinese government has yet to respond to Greene's statements, which may indicate ongoing challenges in diplomatic communications.

Taipei Times

While Greene advocates for dialogue and deterrence, the Chinese government maintains a hardline stance, viewing Taiwan's leadership as separatist. This divergence in perspectives complicates the potential for constructive dialogue. Additionally, the lack of formal diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Taiwan raises questions about the effectiveness of U.S. support in the face of Chinese military assertiveness.

Taipei Times

• “We further expect China to abandon threats against Taiwan or military pressure. I believe this would help ease cross-strait tensions.” — Raymond Greene, Director of the American Institute in Taiwan

The Straits Times

• “There are three ways to resolve cross-strait differences: the first is dialogue, the second is coercion and the third is war.” — Raymond Greene, Director of the American Institute in Taiwan

The Straits Times