China's military today launched new military drills near Taiwan, saying that it is a warning against the "separatist actions of the Taiwan independence forces".
However, they did not specify a date for the end of the maneuvers, which caused a sharp reaction from Taipei, reported Reuters, quoted by BTA.
Democratically-ruled Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, was poised for new military exercises near the island after President William Lai's National Day speech last week, which Beijing condemned. In it, Lai stated that China has no right to represent Taiwan, although he offered cooperation with Beijing.
China's Eastern Military Command said in a statement early this morning that the maneuvers cover the Taiwan Strait and areas north, south and east of Taiwan.
"The exercise also serves as a stern warning to the separatist actions of Taiwan independence forces. This is a legitimate and necessary operation to ensure state sovereignty and national unity," it said in a statement released in Chinese and English.
The command released a map showing nine areas around Taiwan where the exercises will take place.
Chinese ships and aircraft approach in "close proximity from various directions" Taiwan, focusing on preparing patrols for sea-to-air combat, blockading key ports and areas, attacking sea and land targets, and achieving comprehensive superiority," the command said. However, it did not report live-fire exercises or no-fly zones.
Taiwan's Ministry of Defense strongly condemned the "irrational and provocative act” of China and noted that it had sent its forces.
In his speech on the occasion of the national holiday, Lai drew attention to the current state of relations with China and the firm will to safeguard peace and stability, and advocated future cooperation in tackling challenges such as climate change, the ministry added.
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