The Japanese and US armed forces are getting ready a draft plan for a joint operation for a doable Taiwan emergency, Japan’s Kyodo information company mentioned on Thursday, citing unnamed Japanese authorities sources, amid rising tensions between the island and China. between.
China claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as its “sacred” territory and over the previous two years has elevated army and diplomatic stress to say its sovereignty claims, inflicting anger in Taipei and deep concern in Washington. has occurred.
Taiwan’s authorities says it desires peace, however will defend itself if wanted.
Under the plan, the US Marine Corps will set up momentary bases on the Nansei island chain extending to Taiwan, Kyushu, one in every of Japan’s 4 primary islands, and likewise deploy troops within the preliminary part of Taiwan’s emergency, Kyodo mentioned.
The Japanese armed forces will present army help in areas akin to ammunition and gasoline provides.
Japan, Taiwan’s former colonial ruler and the United States will attain an settlement to attract up an official plan at a “2+2” assembly of overseas and protection ministers early subsequent 12 months, the information company mentioned.
Japanese Defense Ministry officers weren’t instantly obtainable for remark.
In October, Japan’s authorities signaled a extra assertive place on China’s aggressive stance in direction of self-ruled Taiwan, suggesting it will think about choices and be ready for “various scenarios” whereas reaffirming shut US ties. .
Earlier this month, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe mentioned that Japan and the United States couldn’t stand if China invaded Taiwan.
US officers, talking on situation of anonymity, have lengthy mentioned that given the hundreds of US troops in Japan and its proximity to Taiwan, Japan may have a key position to play in any emergency in Taiwan.
According to a Pentagon spokesman, as acknowledged by US President Joe Biden and his Japanese counterpart in a March joint assertion, the 2 international locations shared a dedication to peace and stability within the Taiwan Strait.
“We are committed to increasing resilience and interoperability between US and Japanese forces, and to deepening operational cooperation during peacetime and various regional contingencies,” the Pentagon mentioned.
Japan hosts main US army bases, together with the southern island of Okinawa. It is a brief flight from Taiwan, which might be essential for any US help throughout a Chinese assault.
China views democratic Taiwan as a free-standing province, awaiting the day the island may be introduced below its management – peacefully or militarily – with the proper to state-by-state relations.
The United States, like most international locations on the earth, acknowledges China over Taiwan, according to Beijing’s “one China” coverage. But Washington is the island’s largest arms provider and ally and is obliged by legislation to assist defend it.
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With inputs from TheIndianEXPRESS
