OPINION:
Strategic analysis specializing in the Indo-Pacific region has in recent years prepared for a potential military conflict between Taiwan and China (“U.S. Indo-Pacific commander warns of growing danger of war over Taiwan,” web, March 21).
Adm. John Aquilino, head of the Indo-Pacific Command, recently testified to the House Armed Services Committee, saying “all indications point to” the People’s Liberation Army meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping’s alleged goal of potentially invading Taiwan by 2027.
China’s military has been simulating the operations it would carry out against Taiwan, including maritime and air blockades. Since 2020,
China’s defense budget has increased by 16% to more than $223 billion. China has added more than 400 fighter aircraft and 20 major warships and doubled its ballistics and cruise missiles.
While some military analysts have played down the risk of an imminent invasion, the longer-term threat is very real. If a conflict were to break out, it would be a catastrophe and could quickly have ramifications far beyond the island, drawing in Japan, South Korea and the United States.
Keeping Taiwan free from the grasp of China is a vital interest of the United States. An attack on the island by China would gravely
threaten the security and prosperity of America. Of particular importance is that China’s massive military buildup shows no signs of
slowing and the U.S. military in the region needs to magnify its capability in order to better deter a war with Beijing.
Taiwan is a shining, like-minded partner for America. If the U.S. wants to deter China, it should continue to invest in its own military capabilities, support Taiwan and continue to build a coalition with allies. Now is the time for Washington and Taipei to work together.
KENT WANG
Advisory commissioner for the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United States
Potomac Falls, Virginia
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