Commentary
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) insists that there is only “one China” and that the people of Taiwan answer to Beijing. Xi Jinping, China’s authoritarian-in-chief, has said, on more than one occasion, that “reunification” with Taiwan will occur, even if force is necessary.
Contrary to popular belief, the United States does not support Taiwan independence. According to an official statement, the U.S. government opposes “any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side.” Although the United States does “not support Taiwan independence,” those in Washington “expect cross-Strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means.”
If Taiwan doesn’t wish to become part of the CCP’s plans, then the island’s wishes should be respected. Do other countries in the Asia-Pacific region have similar sentiments, or are they firmly in China’s corner? The answer to this question should concern the United States and any other country that believes the citizens of Taiwan should be left in peace….