Pelosi makes historic visit to Taiwan, escalating tensions with China
NBCJUL 2022
More US Lawmakers Visit Taiwan 12 Days After Pelosi Trip
Image copyright: Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs [via AP News]
The Spin
Narrative A
Public sentiment in many democracies is turning against China's authoritarian rule. This latest US delegation shows the widespread popularity of visiting Taiwan among the US electorate, especially as the elections approach in November. Delegations that show support for Taiwan's democracy make sense both geopolitically and in domestic US politics.
Pro-China narrative
The visit to Taiwan is more provocation by the US as part of their attempt to confront mainland China. This again shows that Washington isn't interested in stability across the Taiwan Strait and is exacerbating tensions while interfering in Beijing's internal affairs. The US should honor its historical agreement to the One China policy.
Metaculus Prediction
There is a 40% chance that the People's Republic of China will annex at least half of Taiwan before 2050, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
