- author, Kelly Ng
- role, BBC News
China began military drills around Taiwan just three days after William Lai was sworn in as the island’s new president.
People’s Liberation Army spokesman Li Xi said the drills were a “strong punishment” for “separatist acts”.
The drill, which began early Thursday morning, is being carried out across the mainland, including the western Taiwan Strait, and around the Taipei-controlled islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry condemned Beijing’s actions, calling them “irrational provocations.”
Taipei dispatched sea, air, and land forces for “defense.” [island’s] sovereignty,” the ministry added.
The Chinese military said the exercise was to test its military’s “joint combat capabilities” with an emphasis on joint air and sea combat readiness patrols, precision strikes against key targets, and joint operations on and off the island.
“This is a severe punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwanese independence forces, and also a stern warning against interference and provocation by outside forces,” the statement said.
China has long claimed autonomous Taiwan as part of its territory, but Taiwan considers itself a separate island.
China’s government condemned the speech, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi describing Lai as “disgraceful.”
After Lai won the election in January last year, the Chinese government issued a statement claiming that “Taiwan is part of China.” The government has also repeatedly rejected Yori’s requests for talks.
Over the past year, China has repeatedly rehearsed a plan to encircle Taiwan with fighter jets and naval vessels. Taiwan has reported an increase in Chinese military incursions in the weeks leading up to Mr. Lei Ming’s inauguration.
So far, the exercise has not resulted in an invasion and remains in a gray area.
Analysts told the BBC that grey zone tactics are aimed at weakening an opponent over the long term, and that is exactly what China is trying to do with Taiwan.
Taiwan said Thursday’s drills ‘represent highlights’ [Beijing’s] Militaristic mentality.”
“In recent years, the continuing harassment by Chinese aircraft and vessels has caused serious damage to world peace and stability.
“This military exercise not only does not contribute to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, but also highlights the aggressive militaristic mentality of the Chinese military,” Taiwan’s defence ministry said.
