Taipei: Taiwan has heightened its military readiness by scrambling jets and putting missile, naval, and land units on alert in response to Chinese military exercises conducted around the island this week. These exercises coincided with the inauguration of Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te.
China’s Provocation and Taiwan’s Response:
China’s military announced the two-day exercises as a punitive measure against separatist forces in Taiwan. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its national territory and has routinely sent navy ships and warplanes into the Taiwan Strait and other areas around the island. This consistent military pressure aims to erode Taiwan’s defenses and intimidate its population, which supports de facto independence.
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry condemned China’s actions, stating that such provocations jeopardize regional peace and stability. Taiwan remains committed to avoiding conflicts but will not hesitate to defend itself if necessary.
“This pretext for conducting military exercises not only does not contribute to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait but also shows its hegemonic nature at heart,” the ministry stated.
President Lai Ching-te’s Stance:
In his inauguration speech, President Lai Ching-te urged Beijing to halt its military intimidation. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining Taiwan’s current status and avoiding conflicts. Lai seeks dialogue with Beijing while steering clear of provocations that could involve the U.S. and regional allies like Japan and Australia.
Details of the Military Exercises:
The People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command specified that the exercises are designed to test and enhance the navy and air capabilities, as well as joint strike abilities of PLA units. The PLA released a map indicating the exercise areas, which surround Taiwan’s main island at five points and include outlying islands like Matsu and Kinmen, which are closer to the Chinese mainland.
China’s coast guard also conducted law enforcement drills near islands close to the Taiwanese-controlled Kinmen and Matsu groups.
International Reactions:
In Australia, Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Stephen Sklenka, deputy commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, urged Asia-Pacific nations to condemn China’s military exercises. He emphasized the importance of regional nations joining the U.S. in publicly condemning China’s actions to have a more substantial impact.
Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, visiting the U.S., highlighted Taiwan as an essential partner sharing common values and principles, such as freedom, democracy, and rule of law. She reiterated the significance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait, one of the world’s key shipping routes.
Conclusion:
Taiwan’s alert and international diplomatic responses underscore the tension in the region due to China’s military activities. The ongoing situation reflects the delicate balance of power and the importance of international support for maintaining regional stability and Taiwan’s autonomy.
