Taiwan Monitors Chinese Military Activity Near Its Territory
On October 19, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 10 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels near its territory. In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal-based missile systems to monitor the situation. The MND stated, “10 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”
This activity is part of ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, with frequent military maneuvers by Beijing around the island. Taiwan has been self-governed since 1949, but China views it as part of its territory and seeks reunification, potentially by force.
Earlier this week, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reassured the public of the government’s commitment to defending Taiwan’s democracy and national security. He addressed the nation on Facebook after a national security meeting, following China’s announcement of military drills named “Joint Sword-2024B” in the Taiwan Strait. These drills were described as a “stern warning” to Taiwan independence advocates.
President Lai emphasized that China has “no right to represent Taiwan” and that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are “not subordinate” to each other. He criticized Beijing’s military exercises as attempts to intimidate neighboring countries and disrupt regional peace, contrary to international expectations. Lai assured that Taiwan will continue to defend its democratic system against external pressures.
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 activity -: This refers to actions taken by China’s armed forces, such as flying aircraft or sailing ships near Taiwan. These activities can be seen as a show of strength or a way to intimidate Taiwan.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is a part of Taiwan’s government responsible for protecting the country and managing its military forces.
Naval vessels -: These are ships used by a country’s navy, which is the part of the military that operates at sea.
Missile systems -: These are weapons that can launch missiles, which are explosive projectiles, to defend against or attack targets.
Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is the President of Taiwan, responsible for leading the country and making important decisions about its future.
Democracy -: Democracy is a system of government where the people have the power to make decisions, usually by voting for leaders and laws.
Intimidation -: Intimidation means trying to scare or threaten someone to make them do what you want. In this context, it refers to China’s military actions aimed at pressuring Taiwan.
Regional peace -: Regional peace means maintaining calm and friendly relations between countries in a specific area, in this case, East Asia.