China Justifies Military Exercises Around Taiwan, Citing "Taiwan Independence" Threat

The Ministry of National Defense in China has stated that the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) military exercises surrounding Taiwan are a direct response to "Taiwan independence" forces and external interference. Ministry spokesman Wu Qian emphasized that these exercises are "completely reasonable, legal, legitimate and necessary."

These comments were made in response to concerns raised by US officials regarding the escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The PLA Eastern Theater Command initiated two-day joint military exercises on Thursday, encompassing areas surrounding Taiwan, including the islands of Jinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

These drills, codenamed Joint Sword-2024A, were triggered by a speech delivered by Taiwan's new leader, Lai Ching-te, on Monday. In his speech, Lai openly advocated for "Taiwan independence," prompting the PLA's response.

Wu Qian asserted that the drills are intended to deter external forces from interfering and to suppress the "Taiwan independence" movement. He accused Lai of challenging the one-China principle, promoting the "two-state theory," and seeking independence through force and external support.

"This is playing with fire, and those who play with fire will absolutely burn themselves," Wu Qian warned. He reiterated that Taiwan is an integral part of China and that the resolution of the Taiwan question should be decided by the Chinese people.

Wu Qian further emphasized that any provocation of "Taiwan independence" will be met with escalating countermeasures until the complete reunification of China is achieved.

On Friday, Li Xi, spokesman for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, confirmed the continuation of exercises around Taiwan. These exercises involved coordinated actions between ships and aircraft, as well as sea and land strike drills, testing the PLA's multi-domain coordination and joint combat capabilities.

Li Xi highlighted the PLA's unwavering determination to counter "Taiwan independence" forces, crush separatist schemes, and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The report detailed the participation of missile units from a Rocket Force brigade, which moved from concealed standby areas to designated positions and conducted simulated fire strikes.

Li Dawei, a soldier from the brigade, emphasized their constant readiness to carry out various tasks and decisively thwart any attempt at "Taiwan independence."

Zhong Houtao, a Taiwan affairs expert at the University of International Relations, interpreted the military exercises as a clear warning to Lai and "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. He highlighted the encirclement of Taiwan by the PLA exercises, demonstrating their capability to control the island.

Zhong Houtao also emphasized that the drills serve as a strong signal to external forces, particularly the US, and to separatist forces within Taiwan.