TAIPEI - A leading Taiwanese opposition lawmaker, and former navy chief, has downplayed concerns that China's military exercises could unexpectedly escalate into an invasion. He simultaneously advocated for the implementation of a comprehensive national security strategy law, subject to legislative oversight.
Chen Yeong-kang, a retired admiral and current legislator representing the Kuomintang (KMT) party, characterized China's recent military drills around Taiwan as primarily "propaganda." He shared his perspective during a briefing at the Taiwan Foreign Correspondents' Club.
Chen asserted that it is highly improbable for Beijing to transform these drills into a full-scale invasion without significant operational changes. He emphasized that a full-scale invasion would necessitate a distinct set of military actions, including logistical support and amphibious assaults, which are not currently evident in the ongoing exercises.
5 Comments
Barachiel
Logistical support? Amphibious assaults? Maybe they're building up those quietly. We can't assume anything.
paracelsus
Legislative oversight is a good thing. Keeps everything more transparent. A good sign for Taiwan on the whole.
Barachiel
Playing down the threat is a dangerous strategy. The world should not be appeasing China!
paracelsus
They always say it's not invasion, then it's invasion! Remember Crimea?
Barachiel
This provides a much-needed voice of reason amidst the fear mongering.