19-8-2023 (SHANGHAI) In a dramatic escalation of tensions, China’s military initiated extensive manoeuvres in the vicinity of Taiwan on Saturday (Aug 19). Labelled as a “serious warning” to separatist factions, this move was widely anticipated in light of Vice President William Lai’s recent visit to the United States.
Lai, who is currently the leading contender for the Taiwanese presidency in the forthcoming January elections, returned from the US on Friday. During his visit, he officially made layovers en route to and from Paraguay, although he did deliver speeches while on American soil.
The People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command, entrusted with safeguarding the region surrounding Taiwan, conveyed its intentions through a succinct statement. They disclosed that they were engaged in collaborative naval and aerial exercises aimed at bolstering combat readiness in the vicinity of the island.
The statement further elaborated on their agenda, which encompasses joint drills and training sessions involving naval and aerial forces. The primary focus lies on enhancing ship-aircraft coordination and seizing control of situations, all with the objective of evaluating the forces’ “actual combat capabilities.”
“This is a serious warning against Taiwan independence separatist forces colluding with external forces to provoke,” the statement emphasised.
Up to the time of reporting, Taiwan’s government had yet to issue a formal response.
