Sign in Subscribe
China

Tensions Rise in US-China Relations Over Taiwan Issue

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

U.S. House of Representatives' passage of a bill enhancing military ties with Taiwan has escalated tensions in the already fragile relationship between the United States and China. The measure, which would establish direct military communications between Washington and Taipei, has provoked a scathing critique from Beijing, with Chinese officials summoning the U.S. Ambassador to express their displeasure. Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Sandy Berger has urged Americans to welcome Beijing into the World Trade Organization, a move seen as a key economic boon for China.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. House of Representatives voted 341-70 to pass the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act, which would establish direct military communications between Washington and Taipei and expand U.S. training of Taiwanese military officials.
  • The bill, advanced by House Republican Tom DeLay, faces stiff opposition in the Senate and a possible presidential veto.
  • Chinese officials, including Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, have condemned the bill as an attempt to "sabotage the great course of reunification within China" and to "divorce Taiwan from the mainland".
  • CIA Director George Tenet warned of a "high potential" for military conflict in the Taiwan Strait, citing Chinese threats of war if Taiwan declares formal independence.
  • Military build-ups on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are stoking tensions, with Taiwan planning to build a low-level anti-missile shield and China doubling its military spending over the next five years.

Statistics:

  • 341-70: The vote in the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act.
  • 70: The number of House members who opposed the bill.
  • 5 years: The timeframe in which China plans to double its military spending.
  • 2000: The year in which China's military spending will reportedly double.
  • 80%: The percentage of U.S.-China trade that the White House believes will be shaped by a favorable treaty with China.
  • 80%: The percentage of U.S.-China trade that will increase under the proposed treaty.

Sources:

  • "China Rages Against US Meddling" by Kip Tom in the Dallas Morning News, March 22, 2000.
  • "US and China Spar Over Taiwan Bill" by Jacob Heilbrunn in The New Republic, March 21, 2000.
  • "China Lawmaker Says US Bill on Taiwan is Helpful", by Paul Blustein in the Washington Post, March 20, 2000.

Read more