Taiwan's Thinly Woven Diplomatic Web reported today that the Taiwanese government is closely monitoring a Chinese strike group off its coast. This development comes just one day after President Tsai Ing-wen met with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles as part of her diplomatic trip to maintain ties with Taiwan's remaining allies in Central America.
According to the publication, China holds significant power on the international stage, leaving Taipei reliant on official support from only a few small states across the globe. The majority of these independent countries are located in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Relations between Honduras and Taiwan were strained when Honduras announced plans to realign their stance towards China back in March 2021, having previously been an ally of Taiwan. As it stands, only 13 independent nations officially recognize Taipei's government.
During a press conference earlier this week, Tsai Ing-wen expressed her determination for fostering relationships among existing allies while seeking new ones: "We value our friendships and will continue working together for shared values such as democracy and human rights."
U.S.-Taiwan relations have also garnered attention following President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during her stopover visit; many see this encounter as indicative of continued American support despite not formally recognizing Taiwan diplomatically since 1979.
In response to growing tensions surrounding military activities near its borders by Beijing forces, Li Hsiang-wei (李翔威), spokesperson for Taiwain’s Ministry Of National Defense (MND) said: “The MND has been keeping close tabs on any movements by People’s Liberation Army vessels near our waters.” He added that they would respond accordingly if necessary but emphasized maintaining peace within regional dynamics was crucial at present time amid cross-strait frictions escalating toward conflict territory due mostly because trade-offs taken lightly could prove costly both economically as well politically down the line.
The presence of a Chinese strike group off Taiwan's coast is an unsettling development for Taipei, which has been working hard to maintain its international alliances in the face of growing pressure from Beijing. As tensions rise and diplomatic ties weaken, it remains to be seen how this delicate balance will play out on the global stage.