At the Munich Security Conference, US Undersecretary of Defence for Policy Elbridge Colby stressed the need for collective strength among allies to counter China's military build-up while pursuing a stable relationship with Beijing. Washington and its Indo-Pacific and European allies highlighted the importance of cooperation to maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait.
The Munich Security Conference took place on Saturday, where Elbridge Colby, US Undersecretary of Defence for Policy, spoke. He stated that Washington wants a “stable and respectful” relationship with China and to avoid conflict, but this can only be achieved from a “position of strength” economically and militarily, focusing on working with allies in “collective strength” for the first island chain.
The first island chain is a series of islands and archipelagos in East Asia, running from Japan to the Philippines. It includes Taiwan, which Beijing views as part of China to be reunited by force, if necessary. Most countries, including the US and its allies, do not recognise self-governed Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any forcible change to the status quo and is legally bound to supply Taipei with weapons for defence.
Colby stressed that Washington seeks “stability” in the Taiwan Strait and said the US is not trying to “strangle” Beijing.
