Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills.

The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day.

Beijing deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard boats to encircle Taiwan on Monday, with Taiwan responding by dispatching "appropriate forces" and placing its outlying islands on heightened alert.

Taiwan condemned China's actions as "irrational and provocative", and the US called them "unwarranted".

Japan said Tuesday it had expressed its "concerns" to China over the drills, and scrambled fighter jets near its southern island of Yonaguni.

"The government is closely monitoring the related activities with great interest, and has conveyed Japan's concerns to the Chinese side," deputy chief cabinet secretary Kazuhiko Aoki told reporters.

Taiwan's foreign ministry on Tuesday urged China "not to cause trouble for no reason and become a troublemaker that undermines peace and stability".

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China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and insisted Monday it will never renounce the use of force to bring the island under its control.&nbsp;

Beijing has ramped up military pressure on Taipei in recent years to accept its claims of sovereignty over the island, and Monday represented the fourth round of large-scale drills in just over two years.

Taiwan's defence ministry also recorded 14 Chinese navy ships in the latest 25-hour period, slightly fewer than the 17 announced Monday afternoon.

Of the aircraft spotted, 111 crossed the median line of the sensitive Taiwan Strait that separates mainland China and Taiwan, the figures showed.

<h2>- 'Unwarranted' -</h2>

The United States said China's actions on Monday were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

China said the drills, dubbed Joint Sword 2024B, were held in areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan.&nbsp;

Beijing declared them over by around 6:00 pm on Monday, about 13 hours after they started.

China said the exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

In his National Day speech on Thursday, Lai vowed to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai pledged Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sco-summit-2024-check-key-attendees-dates-and-agenda-s-jaishankar-to-attend-767640">SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda, S. Jaishankar to attend</a>

In late May, three days after Lai's inauguration, China launched Joint Sword-2024A, an apparent precursor to the latest drills.

People in Taipei appeared to be unfazed by the exercises.

"To denounce and threaten with military force is not a big deal and we don't think it is possible that it will invade us with force," 78-year-old retiree Lai Chih-wai told AFP.

"It's not there yet. Their action is like dogs barking."&nbsp;

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills. The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day.

Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills. The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day. Beijing deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard boats to encircle Taiwan on Monday, with Taiwan responding by dispatching "appropriate forces" and placing its outlying islands on heightened alert. Taiwan condemned China's actions as "irrational and provocative", and the US called them "unwarranted". Japan said Tuesday it had expressed its "concerns" to China over the drills, and scrambled fighter jets near its southern island of Yonaguni. "The government is closely monitoring the related activities with great interest, and has conveyed Japan's concerns to the Chinese side," deputy chief cabinet secretary Kazuhiko Aoki told reporters. Taiwan's foreign ministry on Tuesday urged China "not to cause trouble for no reason and become a troublemaker that undermines peace and stability". Also Read | UK prioritises trade deals with India and Gulf nations, says Business Minister China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and insisted Monday it will never renounce the use of force to bring the island under its control. Beijing has ramped up military pressure on Taipei in recent years to accept its claims of sovereignty over the island, and Monday represented the fourth round of large-scale drills in just over two years. Taiwan's defence ministry also recorded 14 Chinese navy ships in the latest 25-hour period, slightly fewer than the 17 announced Monday afternoon. Of the aircraft spotted, 111 crossed the median line of the sensitive Taiwan Strait that separates mainland China and Taiwan, the figures showed. - 'Unwarranted' - The United States said China's actions on Monday were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China said the drills, dubbed Joint Sword 2024B, were held in areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan. Beijing declared them over by around 6:00 pm on Monday, about 13 hours after they started. China said the exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". In his National Day speech on Thursday, Lai vowed to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai pledged Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security". Also Read | SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda, S. Jaishankar to attend In late May, three days after Lai's inauguration, China launched Joint Sword-2024A, an apparent precursor to the latest drills. People in Taipei appeared to be unfazed by the exercises. "To denounce and threaten with military force is not a big deal and we don't think it is possible that it will invade us with force," 78-year-old retiree Lai Chih-wai told AFP. "It's not there yet. Their action is like dogs barking." The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan records 153 Chinese military aircraft after large-scale drills

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years.

The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun.

"We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after.

The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement.

President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills.

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Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted.

Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said.

Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".

The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier.

Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said.

They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets".

The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days.

- China coast guard 'inspections' -

China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island.

The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands.

Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters.

China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters.

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"In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday.

Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law".

He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency.

Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity".

- 'Feel a bit numb' -

Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time".

"If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army.

Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war.

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In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed.

"I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP.

"It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb."

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years. The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun. "We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after. The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement. President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills. Also Read | India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted. Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said. Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier. Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said. They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets". The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days. - China coast guard 'inspections' - China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island. The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands. Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters. China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters. Also Read | Demi Lovato's fiancé Jutes 'almost broke down crying' during adorable proposal "In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday. Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law". He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency. Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity". - 'Feel a bit numb' - Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time". "If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army. Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war. Also Read | Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed. "I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP. "It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb." The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China reiterates stand of not renouncing 'use of force' to take Taiwan’s control as military drills end

China ended a day of military drills around Taiwan on Monday in which it deployed fighter jets and warships in what Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces on the self-ruled island.

Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring Taiwan under its control, and Monday's drills represented its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years.

The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

Beijing announced at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), 13 hours after the drills started, that they had been "successfully completed".

The drills, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement.

"Always on high alert, troops of the theater command keep strengthening combat readiness with arduous training, and will foil the 'Taiwan Independence separatist attempts'," Li said.

President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills.

Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said "Taiwan independence and peace in the Taiwan Strait are irreconcilable".

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Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, around the island between 5:02 am (2102 GMT) and 4:30 pm, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted.

Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said.

Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".&nbsp;

The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier.

Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said.

They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets".&nbsp;

The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days.

- China coast guard 'inspections' -

China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving in an anti-clockwise direction around the island.

The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands.

Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters.

China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-what-key-issues-are-driving-the-polls-where-do-harris-and-trump-stand-on-them-767314">US Presidential Elections 2024: What are the key issues driving the polls?</a>

"In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday.

Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law".

He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency.

Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity".

- 'Feel a bit numb' -

Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time".

"If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army.

Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war.

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In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed.

"I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP.

"It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb."

AFP journalists saw about five military jeeps mounted with machine guns on Monday afternoon patrolling around Taipei Songshan Airport, which is also a military air base.

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China ended a day of military drills around Taiwan on Monday in which it deployed fighter jets and warships in what Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces on the self-ruled island.

China ended a day of military drills around Taiwan on Monday in which it deployed fighter jets and warships in what Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces on the self-ruled island. Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring Taiwan under its control, and Monday's drills represented its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years. The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. Beijing announced at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), 13 hours after the drills started, that they had been "successfully completed". The drills, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement. "Always on high alert, troops of the theater command keep strengthening combat readiness with arduous training, and will foil the 'Taiwan Independence separatist attempts'," Li said. President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said "Taiwan independence and peace in the Taiwan Strait are irreconcilable". Also Read | EU sanctions Iran for supplying ballistic missiles to Russia Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, around the island between 5:02 am (2102 GMT) and 4:30 pm, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted. Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said. Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier. Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said. They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets". The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days. - China coast guard 'inspections' - China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving in an anti-clockwise direction around the island. The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands. Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters. China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters. Also Read | US Presidential Elections 2024: What are the key issues driving the polls? "In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday. Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law". He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency. Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity". - 'Feel a bit numb' - Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time". "If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army. Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war. Also Read | Two IndiGo flights travelling from Mumbai to West Asia receive bomb threats In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed. "I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP. "It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb." AFP journalists saw about five military jeeps mounted with machine guns on Monday afternoon patrolling around Taipei Songshan Airport, which is also a military air base. The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China concludes a day of military 'warning' drills around Taiwan

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday (August 20) that in the last 24 hours, 25 Chinese air force planes crossed the Taiwan Strait's median line, which previously served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides.

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday (August 20) that in the last 24 hours, 25 Chinese air force planes crossed the Taiwan Strait's median line, which previously served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. As per a map published by the ministry, the planes included Su-30 and J-11 fighter jets, though there was no immediate sign that China was continuing its exercises on Sunday. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Taiwanese officials said China was likely to conduct military exercises near the island. On Saturday, China held military drills in Taiwan as an angry response to Vice President William Lai's recent trip to the United States. According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, the drills were meant to test the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) ability "to seize control of air and sea spaces" and fight "in real combat conditions." Condemning the drills, Taiwan said it would dispatch "appropriate forces" to respond "with practical actions". It's not up to China to decide who wins Taiwan poll: Lai Taiwanese Vice President Lai said the island's next year election was a choice between democracy and autocracy, adding it was not up to China to decide who wins the election. In an interview broadcast late Saturday with a Taiwanese television station, but conducted while he was in the US, Lai said, "It's not who China likes today, and then they can assume the post. This goes against the spirit of Taiwan's democracy, and represents huge damage to Taiwan's democratic system." Lai added that there was no cause for China to make a fuss over nothing when it came to overseas travel by Taiwanese leaders. "My position is that Taiwan is not a part of the People's Republic of China. We are willing to link up with the international community and talk to China under the guarantee of security," he further said. US urges China to stop putting pressure on Taiwan Meanwhile, the US on Saturday urged China to stop pressuring Taiwan and engage in meaningful dialogue with the island. "We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan," a US State Department spokesperson told Reuters. The US would continue to monitor the exercises closely, the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

25 Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line in last 24 hours: Taipei

After the Chinese military carried out drills around Taiwan on Saturday (August 19), Taipei accused Beijing of&nbsp;trying to "shape" Taiwan's upcoming election. In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said, "The PRC has&nbsp;made it clear it wants to shape Taiwan's coming national election. Well, it's up to our citizens to decide, not the bully next door."

Earlier on Saturday, China started military drills around Taiwan in an angry response to Taiwanese Vice President William Lai's visit to the United States.

According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, Chinese military spokesperson Shi Yi said the Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army "launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan.

The report said the drills were meant to test the PLA's ability "to seize control of air and sea spaces" and fight "in real combat conditions". The scale of these drills is not yet known.

By afternoon, Taiwan said that it detected 42 warplane incursions&nbsp;making incursions around the island's air defence zone.

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After the Chinese military carried out drills around Taiwan on Saturday (August 19), Taipei accused Beijing of trying to "shape" Taiwan's upcoming election. In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said, "The PRC has made it clear it wants to shape Taiwan's coming national election.

After the Chinese military carried out drills around Taiwan on Saturday (August 19), Taipei accused Beijing of trying to "shape" Taiwan's upcoming election. In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said, "The PRC has made it clear it wants to shape Taiwan's coming national election. Well, it's up to our citizens to decide, not the bully next door." Earlier on Saturday, China started military drills around Taiwan in an angry response to Taiwanese Vice President William Lai's visit to the United States. According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, Chinese military spokesperson Shi Yi said the Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army "launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan. The report said the drills were meant to test the PLA's ability "to seize control of air and sea spaces" and fight "in real combat conditions". The scale of these drills is not yet known. By afternoon, Taiwan said that it detected 42 warplane incursions making incursions around the island's air defence zone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After Chinese military drills, Taiwan says ‘bully next door’ trying to shape upcoming national polls

China on Saturday (August 19) launched military drills around Taiwan in an angry response to Taiwanese Vice President William Lai's visit to the United States. According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, Chinese military spokesperson Shi Yi said the Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army "launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan".

China on Saturday (August 19) launched military drills around Taiwan in an angry response to Taiwanese Vice President William Lai's visit to the United States. According to a report by the Xinhua news agency, Chinese military spokesperson Shi Yi said the Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army "launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan". The report said the drills were meant to test the PLA's ability "to seize control of air and sea spaces" and fight "in real combat conditions". The scale of these drills is not yet known. The drills were also intended to serve as "a stern warning to the collusion of 'Taiwan independence' separatists with foreign elements and their provocations," the report added. Taiwan condemns drills, detects 42 warplane incursions Taiwan condemned Saturday's drills, and said it would dispatch "appropriate forces" to respond "with practical actions". "Conducting a military exercise this time under a pretext not only does not help the peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait but also highlights (China's) militaristic mentality and confirms the hegemonic nature of its military expansion," Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement. Taiwan said that it had detected 42 warplane incursions into its air defence zone since China announced the launch of military drills. It added it has the ability, determination, and confidence to ensure national security. China on Lai's US visit: '...violation of one-China principle' China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, despite the strong objections of the island's government. The latest friction between the two countries comes following Taiwanese President Vice President Lai's US visit. Lai returned from the US on Friday, where he officially made only stopovers on his way to and from Paraguay, though he gave speeches while in America. On Friday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said, "The United States insisted on arranging for William Lai to stop over twice in the country, which seriously violated the one-China principle and undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and sent out a seriously wrong signal to the Taiwan independence separatist forces. China firmly opposes it and strongly condemns this." "The United States insisted on allowing William to stop over to engage in political activities and propagate the separatist idea of Taiwan independence, thereby enhancing official interactions and substantive relation between the United States and Taiwan, and once again exposing the true nature of the United States in saying one thing and doing another, stubbornly pursuing the strategy of using Taiwan to contain China, and constantly hollowing out the one-China principle," Wenbin added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China holds military drills around Taiwan in response to Lai's US visit. Taipei responds

The United States struck a note of caution saying that it was “monitoring” China as it continued its military drills around Taiwan for the second day on Sunday.

China began the three-day exercise on Saturday, a day after Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen returned from the United States, where she met the speaker of US House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, despite Beijing's warnings against it.

"We are monitoring Beijing's actions closely," said a spokesperson for the American Institute in Taiwan, which serves as the United States' de facto embassy in the absence of formal diplomatic ties, according to Reuters news agency.

"As we have said, there is no reason for Beijing to turn this transit — which was consistent with longstanding US practice and policy — into something it is not or use it as a pretext to overreact," the spokesperson added.

The spokesperson further said that the channels of communication between China and US are open, and urged Beijing to show restraint.

<h2>Taiwan: China's drills threaten regional security</h2>

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"We are comfortable and confident that we have in place sufficient resources and capabilities in the region to ensure peace and stability and to meet our national security commitments."

9 Chinese warships, 58 jets encircle Taiwan

Meanwhile, on the second of the military drills, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) dispatched 9 Chinese warships, and 58 fighter jets around the island, Taiwan’s defence ministry has claimed.

On Sunday, the ministry said it was monitoring Chinese military "movements through (a) joint intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance system", adding that the warplanes detected until 12 pm local time (0400 GMT) included a mix of fighter jets and bombers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-announces-three-days-of-military-drills-in-taiwan-strait-580297">Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills</a>

Separately, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the military drills have "simulated joint precision strikes against key targets on Taiwan island and surrounding waters”.

It added that the air force deployed dozens of aircraft to "fly into the target airspace", and ground forces carried out drills for "multi-target precision strikes".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States struck a note of caution saying that it was “monitoring” China as it continued its military drills around Taiwan for the second day on Sunday. China began the three-day exercise on Saturday, a day after Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen returned from the United States, where she met the speaker of US House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, despite Beijing's warnings against it.

The United States struck a note of caution saying that it was “monitoring” China as it continued its military drills around Taiwan for the second day on Sunday. China began the three-day exercise on Saturday, a day after Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen returned from the United States, where she met the speaker of US House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, despite Beijing's warnings against it. "We are monitoring Beijing's actions closely," said a spokesperson for the American Institute in Taiwan, which serves as the United States' de facto embassy in the absence of formal diplomatic ties, according to Reuters news agency. "As we have said, there is no reason for Beijing to turn this transit — which was consistent with longstanding US practice and policy — into something it is not or use it as a pretext to overreact," the spokesperson added. The spokesperson further said that the channels of communication between China and US are open, and urged Beijing to show restraint. Taiwan: China's drills threaten regional security "We are comfortable and confident that we have in place sufficient resources and capabilities in the region to ensure peace and stability and to meet our national security commitments." 9 Chinese warships, 58 jets encircle Taiwan Meanwhile, on the second of the military drills, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) dispatched 9 Chinese warships, and 58 fighter jets around the island, Taiwan’s defence ministry has claimed. On Sunday, the ministry said it was monitoring Chinese military "movements through (a) joint intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance system", adding that the warplanes detected until 12 pm local time (0400 GMT) included a mix of fighter jets and bombers. Also read | Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills Separately, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the military drills have "simulated joint precision strikes against key targets on Taiwan island and surrounding waters”. It added that the air force deployed dozens of aircraft to "fly into the target airspace", and ground forces carried out drills for "multi-target precision strikes". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China simulates precision strikes against Taiwan on Day 2 of drills; US urges restraint

Hours after China announced the launch of military drills spanning three days, Taiwan's defence ministry said that eight Chinese warships and 42 fighter jets were spotted around the island on Saturday.

The ministry expressed "solemn condemnation of such irrational actions", adding the detections — which included 29 jets crossing Taiwan's median line — took place between 6 am and 11 am local time, reports AFP news agency.

Earlier in the day, China announced that it was launching three days of military drills in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, "United Sharp Sword" would run from April 8 to 10 for "combat preparedness."&nbsp;In a PLA statement, Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesman for the Eastern Theatre Command, said the exercise would involve police patrol drills in the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait, "to the north and south of&nbsp;Taiwan, and in the sea and airspace to the east of&nbsp;Taiwan".

The exact location of these drills is not yet known.&nbsp; 
 
China's military is rehearsing an "encirclement" of Taiwan during the drills, state media reported. "The task force will simultaneously organise patrols and advances around Taiwan island, shaping an all-round encirclement and deterrence posture," CCTV said.

China views self-ruled&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

The announcement of the military drills comes after Taiwanese President Tsai In-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California on Wednesday. Hours before the meeting, Beijing&nbsp;sent its Shandong aircraft carrier through&nbsp;Taiwan's southeastern waters on its way to the western Pacific.

On Saturday, Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected&nbsp;three warships and 13 Chinese aircraft around the island, following President Tsai's return from the US.

The ministry said&nbsp;three ships and 13 aircraft had been detected around&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;by 6 am local time (2200 GMT) on Saturday and "4 of the detected aircraft had crossed the median line of the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait and entered&nbsp;Taiwan's southeast ADIZ".&nbsp;

On Thursday, China had deployed warships around Taiwan as it vowed a firm and forceful response to the Tsai-McCarthy meeting.&nbsp; 
 
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Hours after China announced the launch of military drills spanning three days, Taiwan's defence ministry said that eight Chinese warships and 42 fighter jets were spotted around the island on Saturday.

Hours after China announced the launch of military drills spanning three days, Taiwan's defence ministry said that eight Chinese warships and 42 fighter jets were spotted around the island on Saturday. The ministry expressed "solemn condemnation of such irrational actions", adding the detections — which included 29 jets crossing Taiwan's median line — took place between 6 am and 11 am local time, reports AFP news agency. Earlier in the day, China announced that it was launching three days of military drills in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, "United Sharp Sword" would run from April 8 to 10 for "combat preparedness." In a PLA statement, Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesman for the Eastern Theatre Command, said the exercise would involve police patrol drills in the Taiwan Strait, "to the north and south of Taiwan, and in the sea and airspace to the east of Taiwan". The exact location of these drills is not yet known. China's military is rehearsing an "encirclement" of Taiwan during the drills, state media reported. "The task force will simultaneously organise patrols and advances around Taiwan island, shaping an all-round encirclement and deterrence posture," CCTV said. China views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary. The announcement of the military drills comes after Taiwanese President Tsai In-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California on Wednesday. Hours before the meeting, Beijing sent its Shandong aircraft carrier through Taiwan's southeastern waters on its way to the western Pacific. On Saturday, Taiwan's defence ministry said it detected three warships and 13 Chinese aircraft around the island, following President Tsai's return from the US. The ministry said three ships and 13 aircraft had been detected around Taiwan by 6 am local time (2200 GMT) on Saturday and "4 of the detected aircraft had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southeast ADIZ". On Thursday, China had deployed warships around Taiwan as it vowed a firm and forceful response to the Tsai-McCarthy meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills

China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.”&nbsp;

The announcement, in the backdrop of the recent escalation in tensions between Beijing and Taipei, took many by surprise but it has not had a similar effect on the residents of either China or Taiwan.&nbsp;

Military drills in Taiwan Strait

After China’s announcement, its fighter jets briefly crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait as they began drills around Taiwan. This comes after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other officials during her visit to the U.S., which Beijing has since condemned.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-announces-three-days-of-military-drills-in-taiwan-strait-580297">Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills</a>

China’s anger at the visit largely stems from its claims that the democratically governed Taiwan is its territory and threatens&nbsp;to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims.&nbsp;

In line with this, the Chinese army’s Eastern Theater Command said that the drills are a “serious warning to the Taiwan independence separatist forces and external forces’ collusion and provocation, and it is a necessary action to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said it was monitoring the drills and would respond appropriately to defend the island’s security and released a video message, emphasising they would monitor the situation without escalating tensions. The video shows Taiwan’s army, navy and air force conducting drills and monitoring China’s movements.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/stern-warning-chinas-wargames-after-meeting-between-us-house-speaker-and-taiwan-president-580364">'Stern warning': China's wargames after meeting between U.S. House Speaker and Taiwan President</a>

Taiwan’s president, who was in the midst of hosting a US lawmakers' delegation, led by Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that the people of Taiwan love democracy and seek peace. She added that it would strengthen security cooperation with the US without directly mentioning the drills in her televised address.&nbsp;

Chinese citizens largely in favour of reunifying Taiwan with mainland

A report by Reuters after speaking to citizens in Beijing said that while people are largely in support of the military drills around Taiwan, some are also worried about how it will affect their business. “Military exercises are what we should do…let's take Taiwan with military force,” said Wang, 35, who only provided his last name.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 39-year-old Zhou told the news agency, that she was a “bit worried” as her work involves international trade with the main markets being the United States and Canada and many others who work in similar fields are concerned about how escalating tensions would impact their jobs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-military-drills-near-taiwan-live-updates-china-launches-three-day-military-drills-after-tsai-us-speaker-meeting-580333">China military drills near Taiwan highlights: Chinese planes briefly cross Taiwan Strait median line</a>

On the other hand, Chinese tourists on an island near Taiwan were largely unaware and least bothered by Beijing’s military drill launch in the strait beyond, reported the news agency AFP. The tourists at the time were present along the coast of Pingtan, a scenic isle that is the closest point on the mainland to Taiwan.&nbsp;

“I saw the news, but it’s not going to stop our plans for today,” a 30-year-old visitor named Wu told AFP. He added, “Relations with Taiwan aren't great at the moment, but they’re stable. We hope for peaceful reunification.”&nbsp;

Similarly, another man named Lin said that the drills were just “a few preventive measures being taken by the government,” and hoped that China and Taiwan would reunify someday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-announces-military-drills-around-taiwan-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-580328">China announces military drills around Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“The drills are just a way to show our national strength, after all. Our government's response to Tsai's visit to the U.S. is quite strong - &nbsp;took her down a couple of notches and restored people's confidence for us to reclaim Taiwan,” Chen, a 25-year-old college student from Guangdong province visiting Pingtan island, told Reuters. Chen also expressed hope that China can reclaim Taiwan in a “peaceful” way.

Taiwan remains calm amid military drills

There was no broader sense of alarm in Taiwan about the military drills as people have long been accustomed to Chinese threats, reported Reuters, citing a senior Taiwan official familiar with security planning in the region who spoke to the news agency on the condition of anonymity. The official said that the situation was “as expected” and manageable and the Taiwanese government has rehearsed various scenarios for its response.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sanctions-reagan-library-stations-warship-aircraft-near-taiwan-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-580207">China sanctions Reagan library, stations warship, aircraft near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“I have seen the news (about the China drills), when there were things like this in the past, before the war in Ukraine, I always just thought it’s how things are. Even now&nbsp;I don’t totally think that these drills will create security concerns for us, but everything that they (China) do, is to push the limits,” Lu Chi-hao, 30, told Reuters.&nbsp;

This comes as China’s amphibious landing ship — capable of transporting troops, craft and vehicles — fired multiple rounds of artillery early Saturday in the Luoyan Bay area on the coast of Fujian province.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-imposes-sanctions-on-taiwans-de-facto-ambassador-to-us-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-579964">China imposes sanctions on Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to US after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“We are already numb to it, because they have really said this (unification) for a long time. But I think, since we still have to go on with our lives, us Taiwanese have to remain calm,” a 25-year-old social media influencer named Johhny Lin told Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.

China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.” The announcement, in the backdrop of the recent escalation in tensions between Beijing and Taipei, took many by surprise but it has not had a similar effect on the residents of either China or Taiwan. Military drills in Taiwan Strait After China’s announcement, its fighter jets briefly crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait as they began drills around Taiwan. This comes after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other officials during her visit to the U.S., which Beijing has since condemned. ALSO READ | Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills China’s anger at the visit largely stems from its claims that the democratically governed Taiwan is its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims. In line with this, the Chinese army’s Eastern Theater Command said that the drills are a “serious warning to the Taiwan independence separatist forces and external forces’ collusion and provocation, and it is a necessary action to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said it was monitoring the drills and would respond appropriately to defend the island’s security and released a video message, emphasising they would monitor the situation without escalating tensions. The video shows Taiwan’s army, navy and air force conducting drills and monitoring China’s movements. ALSO WATCH | 'Stern warning': China's wargames after meeting between U.S. House Speaker and Taiwan President Taiwan’s president, who was in the midst of hosting a US lawmakers' delegation, led by Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that the people of Taiwan love democracy and seek peace. She added that it would strengthen security cooperation with the US without directly mentioning the drills in her televised address. Chinese citizens largely in favour of reunifying Taiwan with mainland A report by Reuters after speaking to citizens in Beijing said that while people are largely in support of the military drills around Taiwan, some are also worried about how it will affect their business. “Military exercises are what we should do…let's take Taiwan with military force,” said Wang, 35, who only provided his last name. Meanwhile, 39-year-old Zhou told the news agency, that she was a “bit worried” as her work involves international trade with the main markets being the United States and Canada and many others who work in similar fields are concerned about how escalating tensions would impact their jobs. ALSO READ | China military drills near Taiwan highlights: Chinese planes briefly cross Taiwan Strait median line On the other hand, Chinese tourists on an island near Taiwan were largely unaware and least bothered by Beijing’s military drill launch in the strait beyond, reported the news agency AFP. The tourists at the time were present along the coast of Pingtan, a scenic isle that is the closest point on the mainland to Taiwan. “I saw the news, but it’s not going to stop our plans for today,” a 30-year-old visitor named Wu told AFP. He added, “Relations with Taiwan aren't great at the moment, but they’re stable. We hope for peaceful reunification.” Similarly, another man named Lin said that the drills were just “a few preventive measures being taken by the government,” and hoped that China and Taiwan would reunify someday. ALSO WATCH | China announces military drills around Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet “The drills are just a way to show our national strength, after all. Our government's response to Tsai's visit to the U.S. is quite strong - took her down a couple of notches and restored people's confidence for us to reclaim Taiwan,” Chen, a 25-year-old college student from Guangdong province visiting Pingtan island, told Reuters. Chen also expressed hope that China can reclaim Taiwan in a “peaceful” way. Taiwan remains calm amid military drills There was no broader sense of alarm in Taiwan about the military drills as people have long been accustomed to Chinese threats, reported Reuters, citing a senior Taiwan official familiar with security planning in the region who spoke to the news agency on the condition of anonymity. The official said that the situation was “as expected” and manageable and the Taiwanese government has rehearsed various scenarios for its response. ALSO READ | China sanctions Reagan library, stations warship, aircraft near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet “I have seen the news (about the China drills), when there were things like this in the past, before the war in Ukraine, I always just thought it’s how things are. Even now I don’t totally think that these drills will create security concerns for us, but everything that they (China) do, is to push the limits,” Lu Chi-hao, 30, told Reuters. This comes as China’s amphibious landing ship — capable of transporting troops, craft and vehicles — fired multiple rounds of artillery early Saturday in the Luoyan Bay area on the coast of Fujian province. ALSO READ | China imposes sanctions on Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to US after Tsai-McCarthy meet “We are already numb to it, because they have really said this (unification) for a long time. But I think, since we still have to go on with our lives, us Taiwanese have to remain calm,” a 25-year-old social media influencer named Johhny Lin told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills

China has conducted another round of military combat drills around Taiwan, the Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said in a statement late Sunday. The body said that its forces held "joint combat readiness patrols and actual combat drills" in the sea and airspace around Taiwan, focused on land strikes and sea assaults

China views democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory. To further its claims, it has been ramping up military, political and economic pressure.

The aim of the drills was to test joint combat capabilities and "resolutely counter the provocative actions of external forces and Taiwan independence separatist forces", it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-detains-four-military-officials-suspected-of-spying-for-china-probe-underway-549978">Taiwan detains four military officials suspected of spying for China</a>

Meanwhile, Taiwan slammed China on Monday for holding its second military combat drills around the island in less than a month. The defence ministry said that it had detected 57 Chinese aircraft and four naval vessels operating around the island over the previous 24 hours, including 28 aircraft that flew into Taiwan's air defence zone.

Some of them crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial buffer between the two sides. Su-30 and J-16 fighters were among those that made the incursion, while two nuclear-capable H-6 bombers flew to the south of Taiwan, a ministry map showed.

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Condemning the drills, Taiwan's presidential office said China was making "groundless accusations". It added that Taiwan and China were jointly responsible for the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

Taiwan's position is very clear, in that it will neither escalate conflicts nor provoke disputes, but will firmly defend its sovereignty and security, the office said in a statement.

"The nation's military has a close grasp of the situation in the Taiwan Strait and the surrounding area and responds calmly. Our people can rest assured," it added.

In a similar exercise last month, Taiwan said 43 Chinese aircraft had crossed the median line.

China has made regular military incursions into the waters and airspace near Taiwan over the past three years. After Nancy Pelosi, then the speaker of the US House of Representatives, made a visit to Taiwan, it held war games last August.&nbsp;

Taiwan strongly rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's 23 million people can decide their future.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has conducted another round of military combat drills around Taiwan, the Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said in a statement late Sunday.

China has conducted another round of military combat drills around Taiwan, the Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said in a statement late Sunday. The body said that its forces held "joint combat readiness patrols and actual combat drills" in the sea and airspace around Taiwan, focused on land strikes and sea assaults China views democratically-governed Taiwan as its own territory. To further its claims, it has been ramping up military, political and economic pressure. The aim of the drills was to test joint combat capabilities and "resolutely counter the provocative actions of external forces and Taiwan independence separatist forces", it added. Also Read | Taiwan detains four military officials suspected of spying for China Meanwhile, Taiwan slammed China on Monday for holding its second military combat drills around the island in less than a month. The defence ministry said that it had detected 57 Chinese aircraft and four naval vessels operating around the island over the previous 24 hours, including 28 aircraft that flew into Taiwan's air defence zone. Some of them crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial buffer between the two sides. Su-30 and J-16 fighters were among those that made the incursion, while two nuclear-capable H-6 bombers flew to the south of Taiwan, a ministry map showed. × Condemning the drills, Taiwan's presidential office said China was making "groundless accusations". It added that Taiwan and China were jointly responsible for the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's position is very clear, in that it will neither escalate conflicts nor provoke disputes, but will firmly defend its sovereignty and security, the office said in a statement. "The nation's military has a close grasp of the situation in the Taiwan Strait and the surrounding area and responds calmly. Our people can rest assured," it added. In a similar exercise last month, Taiwan said 43 Chinese aircraft had crossed the median line. China has made regular military incursions into the waters and airspace near Taiwan over the past three years. After Nancy Pelosi, then the speaker of the US House of Representatives, made a visit to Taiwan, it held war games last August. Taiwan strongly rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only the island's 23 million people can decide their future. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China again holds combat drills around Taiwan, Taipei slams Beijing