The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has described its recent military exercises around the island of Taiwan as a “legitimate and necessary” measure to counter separatist provocations, according to a defense ministry spokesperson on Thursday. The drills follow comments by Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te, who asserted that cross-strait relations are “not subordinate to each other,” further inflaming regional tensions.
Wu Qian, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, stated that PLA Eastern Theater Command units conducted joint patrols and combat-readiness drills to enhance operational capabilities. The exercises aimed to “deter Taiwan independence forces and external interference,” he emphasized, calling them a proportional response to safeguard national sovereignty.
The PLA’s actions came after Lai’s remarks in mid-March, which Beijing labeled as a “severe threat” to peace in the Taiwan Strait. Analysts suggest the drills also address reported U.S.-Taiwan coordination, though Washington has yet to comment publicly.
Wu reiterated China’s adherence to its “One-China Principle,” stating the PLA remains “ready to defeat any independence attempts.” The announcement underscores Beijing’s resolve to pursue reunification while balancing regional security concerns.
