The Eastern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducted the Joint Sword-2024A military exercise around the Taiwan Strait on May 23-24. The drill was a response to recent statements by Lai Ching-te, the new leader of the Taiwan region, who asserted that Taiwan and the Chinese mainland “are not subordinate to each other,” and promoted ideas of “relying on the U.S. to resist China” and “seeking independence through military means.”
The PLA exercise involved land, sea, and air forces and served as a “punishment against separatist acts by ‘Taiwan independence’ forces” and “a stern warning against interference and provocation by external forces,” according to official statements. The drills aimed to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, aligning with the expectations of people across both sides of the Strait and international supporters of China’s reunification efforts.
Media reports indicate that the PLA has normalized surveillance patrols in the Taiwan Strait, reflecting the Chinese mainland’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Joint Sword-2024A exercise was described as a reasonable and moderate response to provocative rhetoric, emphasizing the PLA’s reactive stance rather than initiating escalation.
Similar to the military drills conducted in August 2022 following the visit of then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan, the recent exercise underscores the PLA’s resolve to prevent disruptions to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. The exercises are intended to deter separatist movements and external interference, thereby promoting regional stability.
Following Lai’s remarks, there was significant reaction from people on both sides of the Strait and the international community. Many reaffirmed the principle that both sides belong to the same Chinese nation and condemned any notions promoting division. The PLA’s drill was seen as a response to calls from patriotic and unifying forces urging strong measures against attempts to “seek independence.”
The Joint Sword-2024A exercise highlights the ongoing dynamics in the Taiwan Strait and the Chinese mainland’s commitment to safeguarding sovereignty. It serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue and cooperation to maintain peace and stability in the region.
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Joint Sword-2024A military drill both legitimate and justifiable
cgtn.com
