China has defended its recent series of military drills conducted near Taiwan, citing the need to confront what it views as the “arrogance” of separatist elements. This declaration comes as tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait, with Taiwan’s incoming president accusing China of attempting to “annex” the island.
Taiwan, a self-governing island nation, is regarded by China as part of its territory, and the ongoing disputes between the two have remained a longstanding international concern. In recent weeks, Taiwan has reported an increased presence of Chinese military assets, including fighters, drones, bombers, warships, and the aircraft carrier Shandong, operating in close proximity. The heightened frequency of China’s military activities has raised concerns about the potential for unintended confrontations, prompting a warning from Taiwan’s defense minister.
Zhu Fenglian, the spokeswoman of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, addressed the surge in military exercises during a regular news briefing in Beijing. She stated, “The purpose is to resolutely combat the arrogance of Taiwan independence separatist forces and their actions to seek independence.” She emphasized that the People’s Liberation Army’s actions are aimed at defending China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Zhu urged the people of Taiwan to discern between “right and wrong,” stand firmly against any moves toward independence, and collaborate with China to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
China’s stance on Taiwan has been particularly strong regarding William Lai, the frontrunner in Taiwan’s upcoming presidential elections scheduled for January. Lai has previously expressed support for Taiwan’s independence, which China vehemently opposes. However, Lai has clarified that his objective is to maintain the status quo and has extended an offer for dialogue with Beijing.
Vice-President William Lai, speaking at an event in Taipei commemorating the 37th anniversary of the Democratic Progressive Party’s founding, emphasized that the situation across the Taiwan Strait has not improved with time. He asserted that China’s attempts to annex Taiwan remain unchanged, highlighting the ongoing complexities of this longstanding dispute.
As China’s military activities near Taiwan continue to escalate, the international community closely watches the situation, concerned about the potential for increased hostilities in the region.
Sources By Agencies