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Picture Courtesy: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-16164639
China conducted “Operation Joint Sword 24B” near Taiwan in the South China Sea.
Taiwan is located in the East China Sea, between China, Japan, and the Philippines, making it a critical player in East and Southeast Asia. Its location is key for regional trade, especially because the Taiwan Strait is a busy waterway.
Any conflict in this region could have far-reaching effects, especially on the economies of nearby countries. Southeast Asia, in particular, relies on stable trade through the Taiwan Strait, and a military conflict would threaten this balance.
Since 1949, after the Chinese Civil War, Taiwan has functioned independently, but China continues to view Taiwan as a breakaway province. While Taiwan operates like a separate nation, with its own government and president.
Only 11 countries officially recognize Taiwan. Most other nations, including the United States, acknowledge China's One China policy but maintain unofficial relations with Taiwan.
While most countries don't officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country, they are very concerned about any potential conflict between China and Taiwan. A war could disrupt global trade, especially in industries like electronics, where Taiwan plays a significant role in manufacturing.
The roots of the China-Taiwan conflict trace back to the Chinese Civil War (1945-1949). After the Communist Party,led by Mao Zedong won the war, the defeated Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) escaped to Taiwan and established a separate government.
China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and presses on the “One-China Policy,” which claims that there is only one China, and Taiwan is part of it. Taiwan, however, operates as a separate nation with its own government, military, and constitution.
China frequently conducts military drills near Taiwan, showcasing its military might and signaling its readiness to use force if necessary.
Taiwan seeks international recognition and support, while China pressures countries and international organizations to isolate Taiwan diplomatically.
India does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country due to its commitment to the One-China Policy, however, India maintains informal relations with Taiwan.
The growing tensions between India and China, especially after the border clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020, have led India to reconsider its strategic partnerships, including with Taiwan.
Bilateral trade between India and Taiwan has been growing in recent years, with India becoming Taiwan's 12th largest export market and Taiwan becoming India's 16th largest trading partner.
In 2023, total bilateral trade was $8.224 billion, with Taiwan exporting $6.013 billion and India importing $2.211 billion. Taiwanese companies have invested in various sectors in India, including IT, electronics, and manufacturing.
India views Taiwan as a potential partner in countering Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region, and the strategic location of Taiwan in the South China Sea and its technological capabilities make it a valuable nation.
India’s commitment towards the One-China Policy limits the scope of its official engagement with Taiwan. Any support for Taiwan could provoke a strong reaction from China.
India must find a right balance in its relations with both China and Taiwan to avoid any regional conflict.
Strengthening economic ties with Taiwan can provide India with technological advancements and investment opportunities.
Collaborating with Taiwan on regional security issues can help India to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.How does the One-China Policy impact India’s strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the context of its border disputes with China and the broader geopolitical dynamics? (150 words) |
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