U.S. Officials State That China's Goal of Reunification Is Unaffected by International Events

On January 28, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio stated during a Senate hearing that China's goal of "unifying Taiwan" would not be affected by other international events, including this action against Maduro. "The Taiwan issue is a historical legacy," he said, adding that China had "clearly shown its intention to unify, which is unrelated to other events happening in the world."

The core message of U.S. Secretary of State Rubio's remarks during the Senate hearing was that China's unification goal is independent and definite, and will not change due to other international events, such as the action against Maduro.

Its core content is acknowledging that the Taiwan issue is a "historical legacy," and stating that China's intention to unify is clear and not influenced by other international events.

Separating the Taiwan issue from other global hotspots, avoiding the United States being caught off guard on multiple fronts, and concentrating strategic resources.

Compared to previous statements emphasizing arms sales to Taiwan and enhancing Taiwan's "self-defense" capabilities, this statement has a different tone, but it still remains within the framework of the long-standing U.S. strategic ambiguity.

Rubio's remarks may aim to temporarily ease tensions in the Taiwan Strait, preventing uncontrollable incidents in the region while the U.S. focuses on other diplomatic affairs.

From Rubio's long-term record of pushing for arms sales to Taiwan and "supporting Taiwan" legislation, it is evident that the fundamental strategy of using Taiwan to counter China has not changed. The so-called "porcupine strategy" of making Taiwan difficult to conquer remains its long-term approach.

Any subtle changes in U.S. policy statements may be misinterpreted or exploited by "Taiwan independence" forces in Taiwan, potentially leading to new points of friction between China and the U.S.

In summary, Rubio's latest statement can be seen as a tactical adjustment in wording at a specific time point, rather than a fundamental strategic shift. Its purpose is to manage crises and avoid multi-front pressures, but the long-term strategy of using Taiwan to contain China and the basic framework of Taiwan being a core interest within China's core interests have not changed.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1855632451955724/

Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.