Financial TimesFinancial Times

Why Taiwan matters to the world

By Gideon Rachman

10 Apr 2023 · 3 min read

Editor's Note

The FT's Gideon Rachman argues that the impact that a Taiwan invasion would have globally is often overlooked. The forcible annexation of the island would have profound consequences, he writes.

Should the US defend Taiwan? This is not an abstract debate. Over the weekend, Beijing simulated bombing raids on the island, while its navy encircled Taiwan.

In response to the steady escalation of Chinese military pressure on the island, President Joe Biden has promised — four times — that the US would defend Taiwan from an attack by China.

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