A potential war involving Taiwan could transform the global landscape.
The Chinese military has been showing significant activity around Taiwan, with China discussing its plan for reunification with the mainland. The Australian ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, voiced concerns about the situation in a recent speech, predicting when China's President Xi Jinping might take such action.
During his speech in Honolulu, Hawaii, Rudd warned of the global consequences of a possible war over Taiwan. "It would be foolish to ignore the increasingly clear military signals from China, including the behavior patterns of its latest military exercises," said the ambassador. If President Xi were to pursue reunification with Taiwan, he may do so within the next ten years before reaching 80, according to Rudd.
The outcome of any potential military action by China would depend on its assessment of US deterrence capabilities. Rudd acknowledged that the economic, political, and geostrategic repercussions of such a war could be as profound as those experienced during World War II. The world would likely undergo a radical transformation if such a conflict were to occur.
Tensions have been rising between China and the United States, as China continues to be active around the democratically governed Taiwan. After Taiwan's recent presidential elections and the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te last month, China has warned the US to stay out of its affairs involving Taiwan. China and Taiwan do not have any official diplomatic relations, but the US remains the most significant international backer of the island.
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In response to Australia's concerns, Senator Penny Wong, the Foreign Minister, stated that Australia stands firmly with its ally, the United States, in support of Taiwan's self-determination. Given China's escalating military activities near Taiwan, both Australia and Japan have increased their military cooperation and joint exercises.
