The West Needs a More Collaborative Approach to Taiwan

On the same day last month that transatlantic leaders gathered virtually for the Munich Security Conference, eight Chinese fighter jets and an electronic warfare aircraft entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone in a robust show of force not far from Taiwanese territory. Tensions in the Taiwan Strait may seem a distant concern to Europe’s leaders, but they cannot afford to ignore the consequences that may arise from escalating frictions half a world way.

President Joe Biden has made clear his intentions to mend frayed relations with allies and to coordinate closely on tackling the China challenge. As capitals on both sides of the Atlantic look for a more collaborative, integrated effort to champion human rights, defend democracy, counter malign foreign influence, and remain at the forefront of technological innovation, they would do well to consider a more collaborative approach to Taiwan.