G'day all again, Ron, you sez "...(were the US not to respond)."
Just in case people are not aware of it, the US is bound by treaty to supply Taiwan with defense capabilities, so, she will have to respond, even if indirectly.
Having said that, while I agree with Steve that harsh rhetoric can cause unpredictable results, as the Chinese proverb would say, "One got stuck on the tiger's back!" I think it is fair to say no rational people would create a civil war of this magnitude [at least I think the Chinese leaders do know how to think, even though I do not like many of their policies.] China didn't do it when she was totally isolated before the 70s. It is quite far fledge that she would do it today. Maybe President Lee realize this. However, even if there is no actual war, and even though Taiwan has tons of reserve to handle its economies, it is not stupid enough to "cut the nose to spite the face!"
I don't mean this war of words is of no concern. This is serious ramifications, but there isn't enough to jump to conclusion, especially this is just "Act I, Scene I." <G>
best, Bosco |
