Taiwan as a pawn in great power politics
Hindustan TimesTensions between China and Taiwan reached new heights during Nancy Pelosi’s visit, this being the highest-level visit from the United States visit in the last 25 years. As stated in a report by Carnegie, a senior Chinese diplomat warned that as they approach the 20th Party Congress of the Communist Party of China, Beijing would “resolutely respond to any scheme, rhetoric or act by the US side to contain China.” With Xi Jinping most likely securing a historical third term, he would be reluctant to back down from any international provocation, especially with the current domestic issues post-Covid-19 pandemic. However, China considers Taiwan as a part of its territory with China’s official policy of eventually unifying the island with the mainland, even by using force if necessary. Pelosi’s visit triggered a sharp response from China, as they launched joint military exercises around the island along with suspending and cancelling official military dialogues and cooperation channels with the US.