[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] U.S. President Joe Biden expressed concern on the 8th (local time) about China's military activities around Taiwan, but predicted that China would not take additional actions to escalate tensions.
According to the White House press pool, President Biden, while meeting with reporters during his visit to Kentucky, said he was concerned about China's movements related to Taiwan but stated as such. He said, "I don't think they (China) will do anything more than what they are doing now."
China has been conducting high-intensity military demonstrations in the Taiwan Strait after Nancy Pelosi, the third highest-ranking U.S. official, visited Taiwan. Claiming Taiwan as its own territory, China argues that Pelosi's visit to Taiwan is interference in internal affairs and a violation of sovereignty. In response, China has declared the suspension of some military communication channels with the U.S. and halted cooperation on issues such as climate change.
On the other hand, the U.S. maintains its 'One China' policy without change. Rather, it counters that China is overreacting using Pelosi's visit as an excuse and urges China to stop its military actions. When asked whether he thought Pelosi's visit to Taiwan was wise, President Biden only commented, "That was her decision."
Tony Blinken, Secretary of State, who is on a tour of Africa, pointed out at a press conference, "We do not seek conflict anywhere," and said, "China's actions related to Taiwan and its military response to the peaceful visit of a U.S. lawmaker are not helpful."
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