Italy-Taiwan relations strengthening
In a significant development, Italy has proposed to participate in freedom of navigation exercises in the Taiwan Strait, a move that could bolster regional stability and align the country with its Western partners such as France and Germany.
This potential action, according to analysts, could position Italy alongside a growing coalition of democratic partners supporting Taiwan's legitimate aspirations. Michele Maresca, an analyst at Il Caffe Geopolitico and the think tank Geopol21, pointed out that such engagement could be a meaningful step in upholding the principles of freedom of navigation and regional stability.
The proposed operations would not be Italy's first foray into the region. Last year, the Italian Navy conducted joint submarine exercises with the USS Russell in the South China Sea. Moreover, an Italian parliamentary delegation visited Taiwan recently, marking the largest ever sent by Italy, as part of a broader effort to demonstrate support for Taiwan's democratic aspirations and global inclusion.
The Italian parliament has also passed a resolution supporting Taiwan's inclusion in international organizations, particularly the WHO. This move, coupled with the proposed freedom of navigation exercises, could further solidify Italy's commitment to the region.
Beijing, however, has reacted to this move, claiming it 'undermines regional peace and stability.' Despite this, the mentioned nations, including Italy, have not been deterred from carrying out operations in defense of freedom of navigation.
The German warships' transit of the Taiwan Strait in September last year was a first in more than two decades for the German Navy. This German maneuver was intended as a 'clear and strong signal' in defense of navigational freedoms and the rules-based international order.
Italy deeply values Taiwan for its economic, technological strengths, and its role as a force for democracy in the Indo-Pacific region. Should Italy join freedom of navigation exercises in the Taiwan Strait, it would demonstrate a concrete commitment to regional stability, mirroring Germany's example in preserving stability and freedom of navigation in the region.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung and the visiting Italian delegation expressed a shared desire to deepen their relationship. Lin Chia-lung even proposed institutionalizing freedom of navigation exercises in the Taiwan Strait, a proposal that could pave the way for a more robust Italian presence in the region.
The Canadian frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec and the Australian destroyer HMAS Brisbane recently sailed through the Taiwan Strait in a joint freedom of navigation operation. Such operations would signal Italy's peaceful intent and reinforce its role in promoting maritime security and regional stability.
Such a move would reaffirm Italy's commitment to freedom of navigation and ensure regional stability in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. These actions have lent meaningful support to Taiwan's rightful aspirations for dignity, recognition, and peace.
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