Taiwan on Wednesday called on China to halt its ongoing military operations in waters near the island, accusing Beijing of unilaterally disrupting peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait while also impacting international shipping and trade routes, reports AP.
In a statement published on its website, Taiwan's Foreign Ministry criticised the presence of numerous Chinese naval and coast guard vessels operating in the first-island chain. This Pacific archipelago, which stretches along the Asian mainland, encompasses Japan, Taiwan, and parts of the Philippines.
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"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs solemnly urges Beijing to immediately end its military intimidation and all unreasonable actions that jeopardise regional peace and stability," the statement declared.
According to Taiwan’s defence officials, Chinese vessels have been observed since Monday both in proximity to Taiwan and farther along the first-island chain. These formations were described as "two walls," allegedly intended to assert Chinese control over the waters.
China imposed airspace restrictions off its southeast coast from Monday to Wednesday, indicating potential drills. However, the People’s Liberation Army has yet to confirm any such exercises.
Taiwan’s government had anticipated military drills following President Lai Ching-te's recent stopovers in Hawaii and Guam during an overseas trip. China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, strongly opposes any formal interactions between Taipei and foreign governments, particularly the United States.
A Chinese government spokesperson did not directly address reports of military exercises. However, in an online statement issued Wednesday, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office, said Beijing would not tolerate provocations from Taiwan in coordination with foreign forces.
“We will take all necessary steps to firmly uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and safeguard the core interests of people on both sides of the strait,” Zhu stated.
The Taiwan Strait, spanning approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles), separates China from Taiwan.
China has conducted significant military drills around Taiwan following various political events, including Lai’s inauguration in May, his National Day speech in October, and the 2022 visit by then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.