Published on: 08.05.2022 – 19:11
The aftermath of Nancy Pelosis’ visit earlier this week to Taiwan, the island considered by China to be a rebel province, continues to be felt. After deciding to sanction the speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Beijing announced the suspension of all cooperation with the United States on global warming and other issues, sending ties between the two countries to their lowest level in years.
A new step has been taken in the deterioration of trade between the two superpowers. Beijing has decided to suspend cooperation with Washington on several issues, including the fight against global warming, while the two countries are the world’s top polluters. Most importantly, China will cancel a meeting between military leaders and two bilateral security meetings.
All of this amid rising tensions following Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, which Beijing regards as an integral part of its territory. This stay was perceived as a provocation by the communist regime, which denounced an attack on its sovereignty.
The US government would have done well to avoid Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, which is of little interest to the United States. But on the American side, now that this visit has taken place, the consequences must be dealt with.
Antoine Bondaz, Asia expert at the Foundation for Strategic Research
For its part, Washington is not bowing its head and has summoned Chinese Ambassador Qin Gang to protest China’s military maneuvers. “We have condemned China’s military operations, which are irresponsible and contrary to our long-standing goal of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” spokesman for Taiwan’s Executive Branch for National Security Affairs John Kirby said on Friday.
John Kirby again suggests China could ease tensions by suspending its military maneuvers, the largest ever conducted in the Taiwan region. The Biden administration does not want to exacerbate a tense situation. “We don’t want a crisis,” emphasizes the spokesman. The US also wants to show that it is keeping its cool in the face of Chinese anger. In view of Beijing’s decision to cut military communications, John Kirby reassured: Yes, there is a risk of misunderstandings, but the communication channels at the highest level are open.
The Chinese military has launched sea and air operations off Taiwan to simulate a blockade. Chinese missiles would have flown over the island for the first time, according to communist propaganda reporting operations on an unprecedented scale in the region.