The ongoing China-Taiwan conflict has recently gained more attention as China announced its preparedness to oppose any attempts at Taiwan’s independence and foreign interference. In response to Taiwan’s President’s visit to the U.S., China conducted military exercises, simulating a “seal off” of Taiwan. While Taiwan perceives itself as sovereign, China views it as a breakaway state that it intends to reel back under its control.
This contention stems back to history when Taiwan fell under Chinese control during the Qing dynasty, was handed over to Japan after China lost the first Sino-Japanese war in 1895, and returned to China in 1945 following Japan’s loss in World War II. The civil war between nationalists and communists prompted the nationalists to retreat to Taiwan, marking the inception of the longstanding conflict.
The Escalation of Tension Over Time
Since the 1950s, the tension between China and Taiwan has escalated dramatically. Incidents like the bombing of islands under Taiwan’s control by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) drew in the U.S., which then passed the Formosa (Old Name of Taiwan) Resolution defending Taiwan’s territory. Notably, the aggressive testing of missiles around Taiwan by China led to the U.S.’s largest regional mobilization since the Vietnam War.
In recent years, Taiwan’s sharp pro-independence phase, sparked by the election of President Tsai in 2016 and her re-election in 2020, has intensified the situation. Concerns surround Taiwan’s increasing economic interests and investments in China, with fears that this may hinder pro-independence goals.
The Strategic Significance of Taiwan
Taiwan is strategically positioned in the western Pacific Ocean, adjacent to critical global players like China, Japan, and the Philippines. It is a gateway to Southeast Asia and the South China Sea, which are crucial for global trade and security.
Taiwan is not just geographically significant but also a key player in the field of high-tech electronics, with over 60% of the world’s semiconductors produced here. Its modern and capable military is focused on defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, making Taiwan a major focus of regional and global geopolitics.
The U.S.’ Interest in Taiwan
The U.S.’ interest in Taiwan serves as a leverage against China’s expansionist plans. Although the U.S. lacks official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it is legally obligated to provide defense means for the island under the Taiwan Relations Act, 1979.
India’s Stand on the Taiwan Issue
Over the years, the ties between India and Taiwan have improved significantly, in line with India’s Act East Foreign Policy. India has increasingly cooperated with Taiwan in areas of trade, investment, science, technology, and environmental issues, despite not maintaining formal diplomatic relations.
India adheres to the One China policy, recognizing Taiwan as part of China. However, it also expects reciprocity from China concerning territories like Jammu and Kashmir. As India’s engagement with Taiwan grows, it is seen as a move to counterbalance China’s expanding influence in the region.
The Way Forward
The situation demands careful handling, considering China’s economic interconnectedness with the global economy. Any aggressive moves towards Taiwan, particularly in light of the Ukraine crisis, could have significant repercussions.
Furthermore, the Taiwan issue surpasses the simple moral question of preserving democracy. The day after any potential invasion of Taiwan by China would bring about drastic changes in Asia. Given these circumstances, India might rethink its One China Policy and separate its relationship with mainland China and Taiwan.
