in a recent interview CBS newsTaiwan’s representative to the United States, Bikim Hsiao, criticized China’s response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to the island country.
China’s foreign ministry warned that Pelosi’s visit would have “serious consequences” and that “those who play with fire will perish in the fire.”
But Xiao pointed out that the US Congress’ visit to Taiwan is not a new phenomenon.
“Beijing is now using this as an excuse to create a crisis over a decades-old practice,” Xiao said.
On August 2, the day Pelosi arrived in Taiwan, China announced that it would conduct live-fire military exercises in six zones around Taiwan from August 4 to August 7. The exercise was the largest exercise the Chinese regime has ever conducted in the Taiwan Strait.
On August 8, China announced new exercises in waters near Taiwan, including maritime strikes and anti-submarine operations.
After visiting Taiwan, Pelosi said the United States would not allow China to isolate Taiwan.
in the interview On CBS News, Xiao was asked about China’s “diplomatic prowess” due to Pelosi’s visit, including canceling several deals with the United States.
“If China is to evolve as a responsible stakeholder in the international community, it will really be Beijing that will decide whether China’s revival develops with international respect or accompanies international condemnation. It’s up to you,” she said.
America’s perceived weakness
Xiao also spoke of China’s “increasing threat” to Taiwan, not just at the military level, but via a “hybrid toolkit” of cyberattacks, public disinformation and economic coercion.
Xiao said he believes the Taiwan Relations Act provided a strong foundation for the United States to defend Taiwan militarily against the Chinese regime, but the Biden administration said the U.S. military would come to defend the island. Refused to state specifically whether Taiwan has a warranty from .. when needed.
President Joe Biden has faced criticism for how his administration is tackling the China-Taiwan issue, and Sen. It seeks to profit from perceived weaknesses in
“China has shown strength when President Biden has shown weakness and they will make the most of it,” Barrasso said in an interview. fox news.
“When China or Putin or someone feels weak, they jump on it. That’s what happened here,” he said. “Presidents need to show their backbone internationally.”
Pelosi, meanwhile, has faced criticism for not allowing any Republican lawmakers to accompany her on her trip to Taiwan. was.
One Republican, Rep. Michael McCall of Texas, was invited but was unable to join the delegation due to prearranged personal commitments.
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Naveen Athrappully is a news reporter covering business and world events for The Epoch Times.