The U.S.’s steadfast adherence to the “one China” policy amid expanding arms sales to Taiwan intensifies diplomatic intricacies with Beijing.
At a Glance
- Biden administration confirms commitment to “one China” policy.
- U.S. does not support Taiwan independence; seeks peaceful resolutions.
- Beijing demands firmer U.S. stance on Taiwan.
- U.S. proceeds with significant arms sales to Taiwan.
U.S. Affirms “One China” Policy
The Biden administration has signaled its commitment to the “one China” policy, a strategy designed to maintain diplomatic stability. The U.S. acknowledges, but does not endorse, Beijing’s sovereignty claim over Taiwan, labeling its status as unresolved. This insistence on neutrality provokes frustration from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who seeks a decisive change in American rhetoric. Reportedly, Xi requested that the U.S. explicitly “oppose” Taiwan’s independence rather than simply refraining from supporting it.
The White House reiterates that its objective is a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait disputes. A senior administration official stated, “We do not support Taiwan independence. We expect cross-Strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, free from coercion.” However, the U.S. remains doubtful it will accept China’s demands without notable concessions in Chinese policy concerning Taiwan.
The PRC continues to publicly misrepresent U.S. policy. The United States does not subscribe to the PRC’s “one China principle” – we remain committed to our longstanding, bipartisan one China policy, guided by the Taiwan Relations Act, Three Joint Communiques, and Six Assurances.
— Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) May 21, 2022
Continuing U.S.-Taiwan Arms Transactions
Despite tensions, the United States proceeds with arms sales to Taiwan. A recent $2 billion sale, involving advanced missile systems, reinforces Taiwan’s defense. This move underscores U.S. adherence to the Taiwan Relations Act, a framework mandating support for Taiwan’s defense needs. Predictably, Beijing condemns such transactions, announcing potential countermeasures. The arms deal further inflames an already tense situation, challenging the diplomatic balance between the U.S. and China.
The American Enterprise Institute’s Zack Cooper said “I find it unlikely that the United States will take this advice without some substantial concession from China on its own position about Taiwan.”
By maintaining a cautious yet supportive stance, the U.S. continues to act as Taiwan’s strongest unofficial ally, even amidst heated opposition from China. The tense dynamic underscores the broader strategic challenges faced by Washington in its Pacific engagements—balancing principles against practical geopolitical considerations.
Diplomatic Dialogue and Future Prospects
Presidents Biden and Xi are anticipated to reconvene at forthcoming international summits in South America, where the Taiwan issue is expected to feature prominently. Historical context and current tensions suggest these discussions will be intricate, potentially establishing the direction of future U.S.-China relations. Diplomacy will play a crucial role in determining whether these meetings ease tensions or further entrench existing divides.
“It will probably be an opportunity for the two leaders to say goodbye and for their teams to wrap up a couple of loose ends, perhaps including an announcement or two on people-to-people issues,” AEI’s Cooper said.
The stakes are clear. As leaderships in both countries face possible changes, ensuring a peaceful approach to Taiwan remains imperative. By adhering to principles of diplomacy and restraint, both Washington and Beijing would benefit from mitigating risks of military confrontation, a victory for both East and West.
