The Wire

Taiwan has condemned a new Chinese law giving Beijing the right to use force against the Island should it declare formal independence. The anti secession law was passed in the final session of the Chinese Parliament’s annual National People’s Congress. China views Taiwan as it’s territory and the law allows for “use of non peaceful and other necessary measures” to ensure it remains so. Analysts say the law is designed to limit the options of Taiwanese President Chen Shui Bian whose party, the Democratic Progressive Party is pro independence. It also allows China to reinforce its military capability, along with the 700 missiles it already has aimed at Taiwan. Professor Stuart Harris from the Department of International Relations at the Australian National University spoke to Ollie Abraham about the law and it’s global implications.