TAIPEI: In a significant escalation of tensions, China has conducted two days of military exercises around Taiwan as a strong punishment for what it perceives as separatist acts by the self-governing island. Here are the key details:
- Chinese Military Activity:
- Dozens of Warplanes and Navy Vessels: Taiwan tracked 49 warplanes and 19 navy vessels off its coast on the second day of China’s large-scale military exercise.
- Taiwan Strait: 35 aircraft flew across the median of the Taiwan Strait, which serves as the de facto boundary between the two sides.
- Taiwan’s Response:
- President Lai Ching-te’s Stand: Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te, visited a naval base in Taoyuan and emphasized that they are “facing external challenges and threats.” He vowed to uphold the values of freedom and democracy.
- Inaugural Speech: In his inaugural speech, President Lai asserted that Taiwan is “an independent sovereign nation” where sovereignty lies in the hands of the people. He also called on Beijing to halt its military intimidation.
- China’s Perspective:
- Punishment for Separatist Forces: China’s military views the exercises as a response to separatist forces seeking independence in Taiwan.
- One-China Principle: According to the One-China principle, Taiwan is considered part of China under Communist Party rule. Beijing sees Taiwan as a renegade province and has escalated threats of annexation by force if necessary.
The military maneuvers serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions across the Taiwan Strait, with both sides asserting their positions on sovereignty and independence. The situation remains highly sensitive, and any further escalation could have broader implications for regional stability and international relations.
Advertisement
