China shows military might in exercises off Taiwan in response to ‘provocations’, says PLA colonel
- Eastern Theatre Command sends anti-submarine aircraft, jets and warships to the southwest and southeast of Taiwan to safeguard sovereignty, says spokesman
- Taipei’s bid to attend US president’s Summit for Democracy risks serious diplomatic crisis between China and the US
“Recently, the United States and Taiwan have repeatedly provoked and sent serious wrong signals, severely infringed upon China’s sovereignty and severely undermined the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait, which has become the biggest source of security risks across the Taiwan Strait. This exercise is a necessary action based on the current security situation across the Taiwan Strait and the need to safeguard national sovereignty,” Shi said in a statement.
“It is a solemn response to external interference and provocations by ‘Taiwan independence’ forces. The Eastern Theatre will continue to strengthen combat readiness training, be determined and capable to defeat all separatist activities of Taiwan independence and resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Beijing sees Taiwan as a breakaway province to be taken back under its control, by force if necessary, and has been wary of warming ties between Taipei and Washington.