China acts tough in cross-strait issues

It could be that this is only a question of perception. It may be that American allies in Europe do not regard Washington's treatment of Taiwan as a litmus test of whether the United States is a dependable ally. But those in Asia are certainly very much aware of Chinese pressure and are watching to see how the United States reacts.

If China wishes the United States to end its decades-long policy of arms sales to Taiwan, it should try to convince Washington that the need for arms sales to Taiwan no longer exists, or at least is no longer pressing.

This is something that Beijing can control. It must reduce the sense of vulnerability in Taiwan by showing that it is not a threat to the island's security. After all, if Taiwan stops requesting arms, the United States will stop selling them.

China's current policy of building up its military capability in a very visible way is counterproductive since it stokes fears in Taiwan, resulting in requests for American weaponry, which inevitably lead to arms sales.

China has stated repeatedly that its policy is to resolve the Taiwan issue by peaceful means. If it is serious about this policy, there should be no need to threaten military action. Such threats make it almost impossible for the United States to stop arms sales.

Beijing has said that after reunification an autonomous Taiwan can maintain its own armed forces. That presupposes an ability to acquire weapons from abroad. Paradoxically, therefore, American arms sales to Taiwan may well continue even after there is a cross-straits political accommodation. But then, presumably, this will take place with Beijing's blessings.

Frank.ching@gmail.com

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