beijing-s-firm-warning-to-us-over-taiwan

China has delivered a stern warning to the United States, cautioning against any support for what it terms as "Taiwan independence." The statement comes in response to remarks by an unnamed US official urging Beijing to exercise restraint concerning the cross-strait situation.

 

During a regular media briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin emphasised that pursuing "Taiwan independence" is futile and will ultimately backfire.

 

Beijing staunchly considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory and has repeatedly threatened to use force to assert control over it. Wenbin reiterated China's stance, asserting that any attempts towards Taiwan's independence are destined to fail.

 

Addressing concerns about military drills around Taiwan and US official comments, Wenbin reiterated China's position that Taiwan belongs to China, emphasising that the US has no authority to intervene in such matters.

 

He attributed tensions across the Taiwan Strait to the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) efforts to seek independence with US support.

 

China recently imposed sanctions on three US defence companies over arms sales to Taipei and restricted discussions of the inauguration on Chinese social media platforms.

 

Wenbin emphasised that China remains unwavering in defending its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, firmly opposing Taiwan's independence.

 

Following the inauguration of Taiwan's President Lai Ching Te, China conducted two-day military drills, labelling them as "punishment" for perceived "separatist acts." These drills involved numerous Chinese fighter jets carrying live ammunition and mock strikes against perceived military targets.

 

The exercises, encircling Taiwan, mark a significant challenge for President Lai as he navigates relations with China.

 

Despite never having controlled Taiwan, China claims it as part of its territory and has threatened to use force if necessary. The joint military drills encompass various areas around Taiwan, including the Taiwan Strait and its outlying islands controlled by Taiwan.

 

The escalation in military activities underscores the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, with the Taiwan Strait serving as a focal point for geopolitical manoeuvring.