“Taiwan is one of the most sensitive issues in U.S.-China relations,” Gan said on the Nikkei Forum in Tokyo. “Any clash in the Taiwan Strait will have tragic consequences not only for the parties involved, but for the entire world.”
Gan’s remarks come as Beijing launched its most expansive military drills around Taiwan in a yr, increasing pressure on Lai Ching-te just days after he took over because the island’s recent president. Tensions within the Taiwan Strait have raised concerns about the implications for the worldwide economy, which is counting on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. will produce a very powerful chips on this planet.
Beijing sees Taiwan as a part of China that ought to be unified by force if mandatory. Although many countries, including the United States, don’t officially recognize Taiwan as an independent state, they oppose any use of force to alter the prevailing established order.
“The U.S.-China relationship is the most consistent in the world, but unfortunately it is marked by deep suspicion and distrust,” Gan said. “When each side views the other as an adversary, the risk of accidents and miscalculations increases.”
Gan, who can also be Singapore’s top trade official, called on the United States and China to construct trust and cooperation on Taiwan and other issues. He said the regional economy would prosper if there was peace and stability.
China’s growing power and desire to play a more distinguished role on the international stage mean its “actions and words are sometimes perceived and interpreted in a different way,” said Gan, who took office as Singapore’s deputy prime minister on May 15. “How China uses its clout in response will greatly influence how countries in the region respond.”
Singapore, like much of Asia, considers China its largest trading partner. The United States is the city-state’s largest foreign investor and a key military partner. The trade-dependent nation has repeatedly stressed that it would not select sides.
“China is a geostrategic reality,” Gan said. “An isolated or excluded China is not good for anyone.”
