China conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan as a warning to “independence forces” on the island after criticizing a speech by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te. The exercises, named “Joint Sword-2024B,” involved the Chinese army, navy, air force, and rocket force surrounding Taiwan from different directions. The Chinese Defense Ministry stated that the drills were necessary to safeguard state sovereignty and national unity. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense called the war games irrational and provocative, while the Mainland Affairs Council expressed disappointment that the exercises disregarded the goodwill expressed by the Taiwanese government. Chinese officials accused Lai of promoting Taiwan independence and increasing cross-Strait tensions for his own political interests. Despite the military tensions, a poll revealed that most people in Taiwan believe China is unlikely to invade in the next five years. The Chinese government has been ramping up its military activities around Taiwan, sending military planes and ships toward the island almost daily. Lai emphasized in his speech that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other, and that China has no right to represent Taiwan. He also reiterated his commitment to resisting any attempts to annex or encroach upon Taiwan’s sovereignty. The ongoing military drills serve as a stark reminder of the tense relationship between China and Taiwan.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
China conducts military exercises near Taiwan to discourage independence efforts
