Taiwan's peace and stability are critical for the region

Global Watch | 2025-08-26

The escalating tensions between China and Taiwan have brought the Indo-Pacific region to the brink of uncertainty.

With China intensifying military pressure and Taiwan preparing for potential invasion scenarios, the stakes are higher than ever. While the specter of conflict looms, the path forward must prioritize peace and stability -- not just for Taiwan and China -- but for the entire region and the global economy.

Rising tensions and military preparations

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has ramped up its activities near Taiwan, conducting near-daily military sorties, large-scale exercises and simulated blockades. Satellite imagery has revealed new amphibious landing barges, dubbed "Shuiqiao" or "water bridge," designed to support large-scale assaults. These barges, equipped with jack-up legs and extended bridges, could allow tanks and armored vehicles to bypass heavily defended beaches and disembark farther inland.

Analysts suggest that the PLA is simulating Taiwan's northeast coastline, particularly areas like Yilan County and New Taipei City, as potential invasion points. However, such operations would require established air and sea superiority, and the barges remain vulnerable to Taiwanese drones and portable missile launchers, as seen in Ukraine's defense against Russian forces.

Taiwan, meanwhile, is bolstering its defenses, including drone production and emergency response drills. Still, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Francois Wu has acknowledged the asymmetry of the situation.

The global stakes

The implications of a conflict between China and Taiwan extend far beyond the region. Taiwan is a global hub for high-tech supply chains, particularly semiconductors, which are critical to industries worldwide. A disruption in Taiwan's production would have catastrophic consequences for the global economy, affecting everything from consumer electronics to automotive manufacturing.

The Indo-Pacific is a vital trade corridor, and instability in the region would jeopardize shipping lanes and economic growth for neighboring countries. The ripple effects of a conflict would be felt across Asia, Europe and the Americas, underscoring the need for diplomatic solutions.

The case for peace

While China's military buildup and Taiwan's preparations dominate headlines, the focus must shift to preventing conflict. Peace and stability are not just in the interest of Taiwan and China -- they are essential for the prosperity of the entire region.

For China, an invasion of Taiwan would come at an enormous cost, both militarily and economically. The PLA would face significant challenges, including Taiwan's defenses and international condemnation. The risk of prolonged conflict and economic sanctions would undermine China’s ambitions for global leadership.

For Taiwan, maintaining peace is critical to preserving its sovereignty and economic stability. While its defenses are robust, the asymmetry of power with China highlights the importance of international support and diplomatic engagement.

A regional imperative

The Indo-Pacific region must prioritize dialogue and cooperation to address the Taiwan question. Countries like Malaysia, which recently hosted ceasefire talks between Cambodia and Thailand, can play a vital role in mediating tensions and fostering regional stability.

The involvement of global powers, including the United States, must focus on de-escalation and maintaining open channels of communication. While military deterrence is important, the emphasis must remain on diplomatic solutions that prevent conflict and ensure long-term stability.

Choosing stability over conflict

The Taiwan question is a defining challenge for the Indo-Pacific region, but it isn't insurmountable. By prioritizing peace and stability, the region can avoid the devastating consequences of conflict and build a foundation for prosperity and cooperation.

For China, Taiwan, and the international community, the path forward must be one of dialogue, compromise, and mutual respect. The stakes are too high to allow tensions to escalate further. Peace is not just an ideal -- it is a necessity for the future of the region and the world.