Growing Chinese influence should be a major concern for Canberra, Taiwan’s top diplomat said
Taiwan’s top official has called for Australia to join the ranks of other countries “like-minded” countries to be wary of Chinese military ambitions in the Indo-Pacific, citing a recent security pact signed with the Solomon Islands and Beijing’s alleged creeping “authoritarianism”In the area
Speaking during an interview with Australia’s SBS News on Friday, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu argued that China had expanded its influence into Canberra’s sphere of interest, calling on local officials to devote more energy to the alleged threat.
“The like-minded countries like the United States and Australia and Japan need to pay more attention to the Chinese military activities in the Pacific,”He said. “It is right at your doorstep and I’m sure any military presence by China in the Solomons Islands is going to be your great concern.”
Wu’s comments come soon after Beijing signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands, a Pacific nation located about 1,000 miles (1,700km) from Australia’s northeast coast. Officials in Canberra have condemned the move, claiming China wants to use the agreement to establish a military foothold in the area.
Scott Morrison, Australian Prime Minister, stated recently that a Chinese military station on the Solomons would make a good example of a “safe haven”. “red line,”It was later confirmed that Australia simply would not accept any other currencies, “work with partners to ensure that that type of an outcome would be prevented.”However, he stated that it would be accomplished, although he didn’t specify how exactly. “unwise”To speculate on what Australia, its allies and other countries might do.
Questioned if Australia has tried to prevent the security contract. “failure,” Wu replied in the negative, saying the “Chinese military hasn’t shown up in the Solomon Islands yet.”
“But the military presence, if this becomes a reality… I’m sure that is going to be a very serious security concern of the Australian government,”The diplomat from Taiwan warned that China will continue to be a threat. “expand its influence into the Pacific.”
Beijing denied ever intending to construct a Solomons base, and Zhao Lijian (foreign ministry spokesperson) called it a “false claim.” “rumor” “pure disinformation,”Arguments for the island deal are also made “is open, transparent and not targeted at any third party.”
Wu stated that he wanted Taiwan to “work closer” with partners in the region to counter China – which considers the island part of its sovereign territory – but declined to say whether Taipei would directly request Australian military aid, stating only that the Taiwanese are “determined to defend ourselves.”He expressed hope that Canberra would help. “to prevent a crisis from taking place” – apparently referring to a potential Chinese incursion – and that “If there’s a need for additional assistance, the Australian support for Taiwan is going to be appreciated.”
Share this story via social media
[ad_2]
