Economist Podcasts Strait shooting? The growing peril to Taiwan
May 4, 2021
David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, delves into the deteriorating strategic ambiguity between China and Taiwan, raising alarms about potential military aggression. Claire McHugh, a writer for The Economist, connects environmental degradation to the escalating risk of zoonotic diseases, highlighting the dangers of wildlife markets. Together, they explore Taiwan's skepticism towards China's unification promises, emphasizing the geopolitical stakes and the impact of human practices on health crises.
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Rising Tensions in Taiwan Strait
- China's military actions near Taiwan, such as increased airspace incursions and commissioning of warships, are raising concerns.
- These actions are interpreted as a show of force, potentially testing the Biden administration and signaling China's growing military strength.
China's Ambiguous Intentions
- China's intent regarding Taiwan remains unclear, despite its increasing military capabilities.
- While some interpret Xi Jinping's statements as indicating a desire to take Taiwan, the evidence is considered scant by others.
Strategic Ambiguity and Taiwan
- America's policy of "strategic ambiguity" towards Taiwan aims to deter China while avoiding provocation.
- This policy seeks to maintain a credible deterrent without explicitly promising to defend Taiwan, discouraging both China and Taiwanese radicals.