World
China Announces Military Exercises Near Taiwan In Response To US House Speaker Meeting Taiwanese President
US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen (Pic via Twitter)
China's military on Saturday (8 April) announced exercises in the vicinity of Taiwan as a retaliatory measure following a meeting between the US House of Representatives speaker and the President of Taiwan.
Beijing claims Taiwan as a part of its territory but the Island nation is a self-ruled democracy.
The People's Liberation Army said the three-day "combat readiness patrols" were a warning to those in Taiwan who want to make the island's de facto independence permanent.
The PLA did not give any hints on whether prior exercises, which involved missile launches into the sea and led to transportation disturbances, would be repeated.
Speaker Kevin McCarthy, among other foreign lawmakers, met with President Tsai Ing-wen in California to express support in the face of Chinese intimidation, reports The Hindu.
As a result, Beijing imposed a travel ban and financial sanctions against American groups and individuals associated with Tsai's US visit.
In 1949, Taiwan separated from China post a civil war. While the Communist Party claims the island is bound to be reunified with the mainland, even through military means if warranted, they believe that foreign officials' communication with Taiwan can prompt pro-independence aspirations, which could trigger hostilities.
The PLA warned against collusion between the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external forces. The "Joint Sword" exercises are crucial to protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the PLA said.
Xi Jinping's regime is intensifying its intimidation tactics towards the island nation through fighter jet and bomber flyovers and missile launches into the surrounding waters.
Despite having no official relations, the United States sustains informal and commercial ties with Taiwan. Under US federal law, Washington is mandated to ensure the 22 million-strong island's capacity to defend itself from Chinese aggression.
Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Cabinet’s Taiwan Affairs Office, said that Beijing will not tolerate any "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and will take resolute measures to defeat any foreign interference, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Zhu stated on Friday that achieving full reunification of the country is certain and can be accomplished.
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