Taiwan Condemns China’s ‘Joint Sword-2024B’ Military Drill
On October 14, Taiwan expressed strong disapproval of China’s ‘Joint Sword-2024B’ military exercises conducted around its territory. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) accused China of challenging the international order and threatening regional peace. MOFA urged China to cease its military provocations immediately.
President Lai Ching-te’s Call for Peace
In his National Day speech, President Lai Ching-te extended goodwill to China, urging it to act responsibly and collaborate with Taiwan to maintain peace and stability. Despite this, China continues its military maneuvers, which Taiwan views as attempts to intimidate its people and disrupt regional peace.
International Support for Taiwan
Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry called on other countries to recognize China’s authoritarian actions and support Taiwan’s democracy. It emphasized the importance of defending freedom and democracy in the Indo-Pacific region.
China’s Military Exercises
China’s military drills, simulating strikes on sea and land targets, were reported by The Washington Post. Command spokesman Li Xi stated that these exercises aim to test the Chinese military’s joint operations capabilities and serve as a warning to Taiwan 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 considers it a part of its territory.
China -: China is a large country in East Asia, known for its rich history and culture. It is one of the most populous countries in the world and has a powerful military.
Joint Sword-2024B -: Joint Sword-2024B is the name of a military exercise conducted by China. Military drills like these are practice activities for soldiers to prepare for real-life situations.
Military Drill -: A military drill is a training exercise where soldiers practice their skills and strategies. It helps them be ready for any real conflicts or emergencies.
Beijing -: Beijing is the capital city of China. It is a major city known for its historical sites and as the political center of the country.
Regional Peace -: Regional peace refers to the absence of conflict and violence in a specific area or region. It means countries in that area are living in harmony without fighting.
Foreign Ministry -: The Foreign Ministry is a government department responsible for managing a country’s relationships with other countries. It deals with international issues and diplomacy.
Provocations -: Provocations are actions that are intended to make someone angry or upset. In this context, it means actions by China that are seen as aggressive or threatening by Taiwan.
Democracy -: Democracy is a system of government where people have the power to make decisions through voting. It means the government is chosen by the people and for the people.
President Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is a political leader in Taiwan. He holds the position of President, which means he is the head of the government in Taiwan.
Independence Forces -: Independence forces are groups or people who want a region or country to be independent and separate from another country. In this case, it refers to those in Taiwan who want it to be recognized as a separate country from China.
Indo-Pacific Region -: The Indo-Pacific region includes countries around the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is a large area that includes many important countries like India, Japan, and Australia.