OPINION:
The tensions in Asia are bound to undergo changes (“An American ’wall of missiles’ to deter China” Web, April 25), but there is a mediator available to ease these in the South China Sea. Instead of positioning the arsenal platforms to counter China, Washington should take a close look at Taiwan’s role within the region and determine how Taiwan can unravel the dangerous escalation in U.S.-China relations.
It is clear that because of its proximity to and knowledge of China, Taiwan is uniquely equipped to assist U.S. efforts in sustaining decades of peace and prosperity in East Asia. Rather than raising spending by building arsenal aircraft, shipa and submarinea, the United States should take advantage of the benefits this important partnership can offer.
Located in the first island chain between China and the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan is quietly carving out a role as a component of the region’s security architecture. The United States and China need not return to Cold-War-era containment. It is time the White House take Taiwan’s role more seriously and meticulously ponders U.S.-China relations.
KENT WANG
Advisory commissioner for the Overseas Community Affairs Council of Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United States
Potomac Falls, Va.
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