How does Taiwan plan to assert sovereignty over Itu Aba?

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Taiwan Aims to Assert Sovereignty Over Itu Aba Through Peaceful Means and Demonstrations

Taiwan intends to assert its sovereignty over Itu Aba, also known as Taiping Island, by employing peaceful resolution methods for the South China Sea issue. While acknowledging the presence of significant Chinese military bases on nearby reefs—Subi Reef, Fiery Cross Reef, and Mischief Reef—Taiwan's approach prioritises avoiding escalation. Foreign Minister Joseph Wu indicated that if an opportune moment arises, Taiwan will utilise the "best way" to demonstrate its sovereign rights over the island, though specific actions remain undisclosed.
Chinese Military Build-up Near Itu Aba

China has established substantial military installations on Subi Reef, Fiery Cross Reef, and Mischief Reef, which are situated in close proximity to Itu Aba. These developments have led to heightened tensions in the region. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu highlighted the "enormous" scale of these Chinese bases, underscoring their strategic location relative to Taiwan's southernmost territory.
Peaceful Resolution and Sovereignty Demonstration

Taiwan is committed to resolving the South China Sea dispute through peaceful means, as stated by Minister Wu. The government aims to avoid any perception of creating difficulties or instigating conflict. However, Wu also indicated a readiness to act, suggesting that Taiwan will seize opportunities to demonstrably assert its sovereignty over Itu Aba when appropriate, without detailing the precise methods.
Itu Aba's Strategic Importance and Defence

Itu Aba possesses a runway capable of accommodating military re-supply flights from Taiwan, making it a strategically important outpost. Despite its utility, the island is described as lightly defended when compared to the more heavily fortified Chinese-controlled islands in the vicinity. Chinese forces have generally maintained a non-confrontational stance regarding Itu Aba itself.
Broader South China Sea Claims

Beyond Itu Aba, Taiwan also exercises control over the Pratas Islands in the northern sector of the South China Sea. The broader South China Sea is subject to competing territorial claims from Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei, in addition to those of China and Taiwan. China's extensive land reclamation and military facility construction on its claimed islands have generated considerable regional and international concern.

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How does Taiwan plan to assert sovereignty over Itu Aba?

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