Taiwan, others criticize Chinese military drill

Taiwan has joined forces with the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and other nations to criticize China’s recent military exercises, specifically the “Joint Sword-2024B military drill” launched on October 14, 2024 near Taipei’s territory.

The international community expressed strong concerns over China’s actions, with many viewing the military drill as an attempt to escalate tensions in the region.

In response, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement condemning China’s actions and urging restraint.

Taiwanese Representative, Andy Yih-Ping Liu who disclosed his country’s position in a statement released on October 17, 2024, emphasized the importance of regional peace and stability.

The Taiwan President, Lai Ching-te, in his address on October 10 reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to collaborate with China, focusing on pivotal global challenges.

He also underscored Taiwan’s willingness to engage in joint initiatives addressing climate change, combating communicable diseases, and maintaining regional security, with the ultimate goal of promoting peace, mutual prosperity, and the well-being of both nations.

The envoy expressed that contrary to expectations, China responded to Taiwan’s leader’s goodwill gesture by launching the Joint Sword-2024B military exercise around Taiwan on October 14.

Taiwan’s reaction

The Taiwanese government promptly issued a statement denouncing China’s actions as detrimental to regional stability, expressing profound concern over the escalating tensions, and urging China to prioritize peace and cooperation.

According to Taiwan, “ China’s latest military exercise constitutes part of a broader pattern of behavior aimed at coercing Taiwan and demonstrating regional supremacy, exemplified by prior deployments of military aircraft and vessels.

“Despite Taiwan’s steadfast defiance and unwavering determination, the tensions persist, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and diplomatic engagement,” the Taiwanese government stated.

Reactions of others

The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken reaffirmed that Taiwan’s National Day address is a regular event, imploring China to desist from provocative responses.

Reacting too, the United Kingdom Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, has voiced strong concerns over China’s recent joint military drill, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, which is crucial for global prosperity.

In a statement, the office reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to maintaining regional calm, highlighting the critical importance of avoiding provocative actions that could escalate tensions.

Also, the European Union, through the European External Action Service (EEAS), has issued a statement reiterating its steadfast commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

The Japanese Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba in his statement highlighted the Taiwan Strait’s critical role in regional and global affairs.

He said “the Strait’s stability directly impacts East Asia’s economic and political landscape, making it a pressing concern for nations with vested interests in the region.”

Besides, the Australian government has expressed its concern over the tensions in the Taiwan Strait, urging China to exercise restraint and emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.

According to the report by the Nation, despite China’s actions, Taiwan remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy, with its citizens taking immense pride in their democratic way of life and resolutely defending it.

Liu asserted that Taiwan is committed to its distinct identity and rejects any attempts of coercion or intimidation by China.

He stated that “it is essential for the global community to demonstrate unity and solidarity with Taiwan’s 23 million citizens, who cherish peace and freedom, by fostering enhanced collaboration and engagement.”

China’s recent military drill

China’s recent military drill, code-named “Joint Sword 2024B,” has been making headlines lately.

The drill, which took place on October 14, 2024, involved the Chinese army, navy, air force, rocket force, and coast guard was designed to test the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops.

Key Objective

The drill focuses on enhancing the military’s readiness to respond to potential threats.

The drill involved sea and land strikes to demonstrate China’s military capabilities.

Concern

The exercise has simulated a blockade of Taiwan and has raised concerns about China’s intentions.

International Response

The European Union has expressed concern over the drills, stating that they increase cross-strait tensions and undermine regional stability.

Besides, the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has also voiced concerns about the exercises, highlighting the risk of dangerous escalation in the Taiwan Strait.

Implications

The drill has sparked worries about China’s military coercive strategy toward Taiwan and its potential impact on regional security.

It is also likely to galvanize Western commitment to military deterrence in the Indo-Pacific and contribute to slow business decoupling from China and Taiwan.

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