U.S. Strengthens Indo-Pacific Alliances Amid China's Escalation

The United States is expanding its alliances in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's threats, according to Raymond Greene, the top U.S. diplomat in Taiwan. Greene mentioned that the U.S. is considering joint weapon production with Taiwan and emphasized that these efforts aim to maintain peace and strategic balance.

The United States is intensifying its network of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's rising threats, stated Raymond Greene, the top U.S. diplomat in Taiwan, on Wednesday. Greene emphasized that Taiwan is not Beijing's only target in its attempts to alter the status quo.

America, despite its lack of formal ties with Taiwan, remains the island's key supporter and arms supplier. Greene, the newly appointed director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and de facto U.S. ambassador, addressed reporters in Taipei, highlighting that the U.S. is creating a latticework of alliances to boost deterrence capabilities. He noted that more nations are teaming up to uphold the rules-based international system in the face of Chinese intimidation and coercion efforts.

Greene underscored that these initiatives, alongside Taiwan's significant investments in defense and military reforms, are preventive measures aimed at maintaining peace rather than preparing for conflict. He expressed that preserving the strategic balance in the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific is essential for fostering peaceful dialogue between the concerned parties.

Not dismissing the potential for joint weapon production with Taiwan, Greene remarked that the island's defense needs are a primary focus for U.S. arms deliveries. Without divulging details, he hinted at ongoing discussions with several partners to expand joint military production, possibly including Taiwan.

Additionally, Greene mentioned U.S. efforts to cooperate with Taiwan on enhancing emergency response capabilities, including improving the island's infrastructure in communications, cyber security, and energy supplies. He stressed the importance of leveraging Taiwan's expertise to address both natural and man-made threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)