H.E. Jessica Lee, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Republic of Palau
Over the past several days, people across the Indo-Pacific have once again witnessed a familiar and troubling pattern. Under the pretext of issuing a so-called “stern warning,” China has launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, deploying aircraft and naval vessels in a show of force that deliberately escalates tensions in our region.
These actions are not routine drills. They are unilateral and provocative military maneuvers that undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and beyond. More importantly, they disregard the rules-based international order that has allowed nations—large and small—to coexist, prosper, and resolve differences peacefully.
For the people of Palau, a proud island nation deeply connected to the ocean and to global transportation networks, this issue is neither distant nor abstract. The Taiwan Strait is one of the world’s most vital air and maritime corridors. When military exercises are conducted suddenly and without transparency, the consequences are felt immediately in civilian life.
In recent days, China’s military activities have forced commercial airlines to adjust flight routes, delay schedules, or reroute aircraft to avoid designated exercise zones. Such disruptions directly affect international flights to and from Taiwan, a major regional aviation hub, creating uncertainty for passengers, airlines, and the broader travel industry.
For Pacific Island countries like Palau—where tourism, business travel, and reliable air connectivity are essential—instability in regional aviation does not remain someone else’s problem. It undermines traveler confidence, complicates travel planning, and ultimately affects local livelihoods.
A Threat to Regional Stability and International Norms
China’s recent military exercises are part of a broader pattern. Through repeated drills, incursions by aircraft and vessels, and so-called “gray-zone” tactics, China has increasingly relied on coercion rather than dialogue. Such behavior violates the spirit of the United Nations Charter, which calls on all states to refrain from the threat or use of force.
Peace in the Taiwan Strait is not merely a bilateral concern. It is widely recognized by the international community as a matter of global interest. Yet China continues to attempt to unilaterally alter the status quo through intimidation. This approach places neighboring countries—especially those along the first island chain—under growing pressure and uncertainty.
Beyond aviation, these actions also heighten risks to one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. Increased military activity raises insurance costs, disrupts shipping schedules, and adds uncertainty to global logistics. For island nations that rely heavily on imported food, fuel, medical supplies, and construction materials, any disruption to international shipping is felt quickly and directly.
For small and medium-sized countries, including Palau, respect for international law is not optional—it is essential. When rules are ignored and power is used to intimidate, the security and economic stability of all nations are put at risk.
Taiwan and Palau: Partners in Democracy and Peace
Taiwan and Palau share far more than diplomatic ties. We are like-minded partners united by our commitment to democracy, freedom, human dignity, and the rule of law. Our friendship is built not on coercion, but on mutual respect and genuine cooperation.
Taiwan understands the concerns of Pacific Island nations. As a democracy facing constant pressure, we know how important it is for countries to have the freedom to choose their own future without threats or interference. This is why Taiwan consistently advocates peaceful dialogue, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
Despite growing military pressure, Taiwan has never sought escalation. We remain calm, responsible, and committed to maintaining the status quo—one that preserves peace and allows our region to focus on development, climate resilience, and the well-being of our people.
Why Taiwan Strait Peace Matters to Palau
Palau has long stood as a principled voice in international affairs, speaking up for peace, freedom, and the rights of smaller nations. The stability of the Taiwan Strait directly affects Palau’s strategic environment, economic security, and maritime and air connectivity.
Any conflict—or sustained military intimidation—would disrupt shipping routes, raise global prices, strain supply chains, and weaken tourism confidence. For island nations that depend on openness, predictability, and international cooperation, these disruptions are not theoretical; they affect daily life.
Safeguarding peace is therefore not an abstract diplomatic concept—it is a practical necessity for our shared future.
Standing Together for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
Taiwan will continue to work closely with Palau and other like-minded partners to uphold peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. We call on all responsible members of the international community to speak out against coercion and to support dialogue over confrontation.
Peace is not maintained by silence in the face of intimidation. It is preserved when nations stand together, defend shared values, and insist that disputes be resolved peacefully.
Taiwan remains a responsible and constructive partner. We firmly believe that a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific—where international law is respected and democracy can flourish—is in the best interest of Taiwan, Palau, and the entire global community.