TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's decision to extend military service to one year is a significant indicator of its commitment to defense, according to a top military expert, who also cautioned that reversing this decision would raise significant concerns in the United States and Japan.
Discussing Taiwan's defense strategy in light of cross-strait tensions, Michael Jonathan Green, former Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council and the CEO of the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney, emphasized explained on Thursday (Dec. 7) that the primary concern for the U.S. currently revolves around Taiwan's vulnerability to Chinese pressure or military actions.
The extension of Taiwan's military conscription is viewed as a demonstration of political determination to counter Beijing's intimidation.
Green underscored that the United States, Japan, and Australia all believe that Taiwan is making every effort to stabilize the situation and prevent a potential conflict. Green stated, "If the decision to extend military service to one year is reversed, it would not only be a cause for concern in the U.S. but would also raise alarm in Japan."
Additionally, Green pointed out that any threat posed by China to Taiwan could endanger security throughout the entire First Island Chain, impacting nations such as the U.S., Canada, Japan, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand. Therefore, Taiwan's unwavering commitment to self-defense remains of paramount importance.
It's worth noting that Green served as a senior official in the Bush Administration and was a member of the bipartisan U.S. delegation led by President Biden during their visit to Taiwan in March. During the visit, he held discussions with President Tsai Ing-wen and Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng.