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Taiwan Deepens US Pacific Ties, Warns Blockade Risks Xi

8/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

On July 31, Defence Minister Wellington Koo said Taiwan is deepening exchanges with the U.S. Pacific Command.
He said Taiwan occupies a spot in the island chain and called the United States its most important backer and arms supplier despite lacking formal diplomatic ties.
He warned a Chinese maritime blockade would challenge China’s economy, likely bring sanctions, and create political risks for President Xi Jinping that could threaten regime stability.

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Story summary

On July 31, Defence Minister Wellington Koo said Taiwan is deepening exchanges with the U.S. Pacific Command.
He said Taiwan occupies a spot in the island chain and called the United States its most important backer and arms supplier despite lacking formal diplomatic ties.
He warned a Chinese maritime blockade would challenge China’s economy, likely bring sanctions, and create political risks for President Xi Jinping that could threaten regime stability.