Rubio’s remarks clearly carry implicit intent. On November 1, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio stated that freedom of navigation—specifically in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait—was a key topic discussed during the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting. Undoubtedly, there have been adversarial coercive actions—though perhaps not direct military operations—nonetheless raising concerns, which pose threats to the economies of various nations across the South China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and other regions.

Rubio emphasized that the Quad is a cooperative arrangement among four countries sharing common interests and united in opposing certain behaviors. He stressed it is not an anti-China or anti-any-country alliance. Yet clearly, despite not naming any specific country directly, the reference to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait leaves little ambiguity about the intended target. We must ask: Has freedom of navigation in the South China Sea been genuinely affected by any nation? In the Taiwan Strait, has non-provocative navigation by other states been disrupted? Why did Rubio specifically highlight the Taiwan Strait? Repeatedly invoking freedom of navigation as a pretext to challenge China, does the United States expect others to passively accept such conduct without response?

If economic threats are being cited, one should also consider which nation has repeatedly initiated global tariff wars and routinely resorted to sanctions against other countries.

Rubio claims this is not an anti-China coalition, yet the focus of its agenda is unmistakably directed at China. Is this not a fact? The United States' own actions in the Middle East have triggered regional instability, with spillover effects felt worldwide. It is the U.S., rather than others, whose adversarial and coercive behavior—often disregarding international law—that poses a genuine threat to the economic security of nations. There is no obstruction to normal maritime passage in the Taiwan Strait. However, we firmly oppose deliberate provocations by U.S. warships. The United States should exercise caution on the Taiwan issue and refrain from sending misleading signals.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1880617785458691/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.