The Chinese Defense Ministry has reaffirmed its position that recent military exercises near Taiwan constitute legitimate measures to safeguard national sovereignty. Defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang stated Friday that the People's Liberation Army's 'Justice Mission 2025' operations were essential responses to separatist activities and external interference.
Zhang's comments came following coordinated expressions of concern from the United States, Japan, Australia, the Philippines, and European Union representatives regarding the scale and timing of December's drills. The spokesperson emphasized that such training exercises represent 'normal military preparations' under current cross-strait conditions.
Analysts note the drills occurred amid heightened regional security discussions, particularly regarding navigation patterns in the Taiwan Strait. The Defense Ministry maintains that all operations strictly adhere to international law and serve as defensive measures rather than provocations.
This development follows Beijing's repeated calls for peaceful reunification efforts while opposing what it characterizes as 'collusion between Taiwan independence forces and external elements.' Cross-strait relations remain a focal point in Asia-Pacific diplomatic engagements as 2026 begins.
