Clashes or disputes - China concludes military drills near Taiwan.
China recently conducted a massive military exercise surrounding Taiwan, with state media declaring the two-day event a success. According to Taiwan's Ministry of Defense, 62 Chinese military aircraft were detected near the island - the highest count so far this year in a single day. 47 of these aircraft also entered Taiwan's air defense zone, also a new record. There's a daily presence of Chinese military planes towards Taiwan to maintain pressure against the island.
The Communist Party in China views the democratically-ruled Taiwan as a part of its territory and possessions, and intends to invade it to achieve "reunification". The military drills on Thursday and Friday included simulating a blockade, as perceived by a military expert on Chinese television. One of the goals was to block energy imports, a crucial lifeline for Taiwan, and to interfere with the escape routes for Taiwanese politicians based abroad.
During these drills, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) reportedly practiced taking over the island. A spokesman from the Chinese military stated that the operation was focused on "testing the command's ability to jointly take control of the battlefield, carry out joint attacks, and seize important areas."
Intimidation after a new president's inauguration
This large-scale exercise was also meant to intimidate, taking place only three days after Taiwan's newly inaugurated President Lai Ching-te. Lai's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won the election in January and promotes a policy that challenges China. Beijing labels the DPP as separatists.
Chinese officials view the military maneuvers as a warning to Lai and the DPP, urging him to work towards Taiwan's official independence from China. According to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, all Taiwanese separatist forces would be "crushed in the face of the historical development of China's complete reunification."
The European Union (EU) responded to these military activities with criticism. A representative for EU foreign affairs, Josep Borrell, said that China's actions are contributing to increased tensions. They emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability between China and Taiwan for regional and global security and prosperity. Conflicts should be resolved through dialogue.
Despite these assurances of control, China view Taiwan as part of their territory, despite having democratic and independent governments in place for decades. The Chinese leadership persistently expresses their intent to unite Taiwan and the mainland by military force. In addition to the regularly scheduled military exchanges, daily incursions by fighter planes continue to demonstrate Beijing's determination and the might of the People's Liberation Army.
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Source: www.stern.de
