Taiwan badly needs united rescue effort
- Harrowing images from quake-hit island call for swift humanitarian response despite strained cross-strait relations and fears for vital semiconductor sector
The force of nature can be unforgiving, as shown in the powerful earthquake that hit Taiwan’s eastern coastal region on Wednesday morning. The scale of the damage and number of casualties from the 7.3 magnitude quake have yet to fully unfold, but the harrowing scenes suggest worse news is to come. Our thoughts are with all those who are suffering at this terrible time.
There are concerns that the earthquake, Taiwan’s strongest in a quarter of a century, will further strain cross-strait relations and damage the island’s strategic semiconductor industry, which is pivotal to the global supply chain. The hardest hit region of Hualien is home to leaders in the chip manufacturing sector.
Initial reports said some plants had evacuated their premises and partially suspended operations, but Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company later said work could resume after inspection.
The earthquake was the most powerful to hit the island since 1999, when a 7.6 magnitude tremor killed some 2,400 people and injured thousands of others. The latest shock, originating from the waters about 25km (15.5 miles) south of Hualien, was felt as far as Hong Kong and the mainland China coast.
Shocking images of collapsed buildings and leaning structures soon went viral on social media.
The tragedy has not only touched the hearts of Chinese and many millions of others worldwide, but also leading economies are worried the semiconductor industry and global supply chain for the hi-tech sector will be left counting the cost. Moreover, it comes at a time when some countries are considering a change in trade strategies amid growing political uncertainties arising from worsening cross-strait relations.
It may also complicate the delicate situation in the run-up to the inauguration of Taiwan’s new leader, William Lai Ching-te, next month. However, mainland authorities did swiftly offer disaster assistance, as did the Japanese government.
Such offers will put the independence-leaning Taiwan authorities to the test when disaster relief and humanitarian aid are put against politics. The situation demands to be handled carefully, but the former must always outweigh the latter when it comes to rescue efforts.
