As reported by AP, Dong on Sunday accused Washington of causing friction with China because of its support for Taiwan and the Philippines. "Anyone who dares to separate Taiwan from China will only end up in self-destruction." Their main objective is to deter China in its expansionist claims and aggressive actions in the South China Sea, which have led to numerous incidents with vessels and troops of the Philippines and Vietnam, among others. AdvertisementIt is just possible that the deterrence strategy may have already spared Taiwan from an imminent invasion by China. Even more likely, Japan's strong response to Chinese claims to the East China Sea off its coast may have already discouraged Chinese expansionism in the area.

Source: Manila Times June 03, 2024 16:22 UTC