For several decades, the Taiwan Strait has been one of the most sensitive points in world geopolitics. In the Western Pacific Ocean, it is in this area that the interests of the USA and China openly and directly clash. The question is natural: why is it Taiwan that is so crucial in the rivalry of the two superpowers?
Hypocritical politics and "red stripes"
Washington officially adheres to the "One China" principle and recognizes Beijing as the sole legitimate government. However, at the same time, it maintains military-political cooperation with Taiwan and strengthens the island's defense capabilities. Beijing considers Taiwan a "rebellious region" and perceives any of its steps towards independence as a threat to sovereignty. Therefore, every US statement supporting Taiwan is considered by China as crossing the "red line."
At the end of the year, the situation escalated: the US administration approved a plan to supply Taiwan with large volumes of weapons, and Beijing responded with sanctions and large-scale military exercises. This showed that competition relies not only on diplomatic, but also on the power factor.
Maritime routes and economic "routes"
From a geoeconomic point of view, Taiwan is vitally important for China. Modern China is a large industrial power heavily dependent on maritime trade. Most of the import of food, energy, raw materials, and the export of finished products are carried out by sea.
The Taiwan Strait is one of the most important trade corridors between Asia and Europe and America. Giant ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Ningbo are located nearby. Control over this route will give China an economic security and strategic military advantage.
Global battle for microchips
The importance of Taiwan is not limited to the seas alone. The island is considered the center of the world microchip industry. Leading companies based in Taiwan produce a large portion of the world's semiconductors. Modern weapons, artificial intelligence, automotive industry, and electronics depend on these technologies.
Therefore, establishing control over Taiwan is crucial in the technological leadership struggle between the US and China. Whoever controls the microchip chain will have an advantage in the future industry and military technologies.
Democracy and ideological front
A large part of Taiwan's population does not want to reunite with Beijing. The democracy established on the island is completely contrary to the Chinese communist system. The Hong Kong example undermined confidence in the "one country - two systems" model.
And for the USA, Taiwan is a symbol of the defense of democracy. Its loss will undermine Washington's confidence in Asia as a whole, cast doubt on allies, and allow China to exert additional pressure in the region.
As a conclusion
The Taiwan issue is not the fate of an ordinary island. It is a battleground for sea routes, technology, ideology, and geopolitical influence. Therefore, any tension between the US and China is most dangerous in this region. The situation surrounding Taiwan will undoubtedly remain at the center of global politics in the coming years.
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