China responds to Taiwan’s moves, reaffirms right to conduct military exercises

Defence Ministry vows action against Taiwan separatism, reaffirming the PLA’s commitment to reunification

BEIJING/TAIPEI:

China’s Defence Ministry addressed the recent military activities around Taiwan, affirming that it is China's sovereign right to decide whether to conduct military drills on Frida.

The Ministry emphasised that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) would not stand idle in opposing separatist forces and would take necessary action to safeguard national unity.

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry had raised an alert earlier this week, activating an emergency response centre in reaction to increased Chinese military movements near the island and in the broader East and South China Seas.

China did not officially confirm or deny any military drills, but the Defence Ministry referred to the teachings of ancient Chinese strategist Sun Tzu, quoting, "Just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions."

This reflects the unpredictable nature of war, indicating that China will decide on military exercises based on its needs and the ongoing situation.

The statement reiterated that the PLA would remain active in defending against separatism and pushing for reunification, warning that any attempts to seek independence with foreign support would ultimately fail and face severe consequences.

China has conducted two rounds of military drills around Taiwan this year, with the most recent one in October, described as a warning to separatist activities.

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry remarked that China’s military threats have evolved since 2022, shifting from deterrence to impacting the broader region, including the First Island Chain. The Ministry also stated that China’s long-term goal of undermining regional stability and the international order would not be supported by the global community.

Security experts had anticipated military drills coinciding with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s visits to Hawaii and Guam, and as a reminder of China’s red lines, particularly with the incoming US administration.

On Thursday, the US de facto embassy in Taiwan acknowledged increased Chinese military activity but did not link it directly to Lai’s trips.

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry later reported a decrease in Chinese military aircraft activity, with only 12 aircraft spotted in the past 24 hours, compared to 34 the previous day.

Additionally, Taiwan’s coast guard observed Chinese coast guard ships withdrawing after conducting "undue" activities around the island.