Taiwan Monitors Chinese Military Activity Amid Rising Tensions
On October 16, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported that 22 Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels were detected near Taiwan. Of these, 13 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan’s northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems to monitor the situation.
In a statement, Taiwan’s MND emphasized their vigilance and response to the activities. This incident is part of a series of provocations by China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, despite Taiwan’s independent governance since 1949.
Recently, Taiwan condemned China’s ‘Joint Sword-2024B’ military drill, accusing it of undermining regional peace. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry urged China to cease its military provocations and called on other nations to support Taiwan’s democracy and the rules-based international order.
President Lai Ching-te, in his National Day address, expressed goodwill towards China, urging cooperation for peace and stability. However, China continues its military exercises, aiming to intimidate Taiwan and disrupt regional peace.
China’s military drills, simulating strikes on sea and land targets, were described by Command spokesman Li Xi as a warning to Taiwan’s independence forces.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and operates like an independent country, but China claims it as part of its territory.
Chinese military aircraft -: These are airplanes used by China’s military forces. They can be used for defense, attack, or surveillance purposes.
Naval vessels -: These are ships used by the military, often for defense or attack in the sea. They can include submarines, destroyers, and aircraft carriers.
Airspace -: Airspace is the area above a country where it controls the movement of aircraft. Crossing into another country’s airspace without permission can be seen as a threat.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is a government department in Taiwan responsible for managing the country’s defense and military activities.
International support -: This means getting help or backing from other countries around the world. Taiwan is asking other countries to support its right to be independent and democratic.
President Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is a political leader in Taiwan. He is calling for peace amid the tensions with China.
