Curfew has been imposed in Solomon Islands capital Honiara after protesters allegedly burned down a building in the parliament precinct, a police station and a store, amid reports of looting.

The burnt building was reportedly owned by a Chinese national.

The agitators were demanding the prime minister, Manasseh Sogavare, to step down over failure to deliver promised infrastructure among other complaints, according to local media reports.

According to reports, the protesters belonged to Malaita province, the most populous province in the pacific island country,&nbsp;whose provincial government has had tense relations with the central government for years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-leader-meets-solomons-envoy-to-shore-up-ties-over-china-248580">Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China</a>

The tensions are also being attributed to Sogavare’s decision in 2019 to cut&nbsp;ties with Taiwan and establish a diplomatic relationship with China—a move that angered Malaita premier Daniel Suidani.

Police on Wednesday fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of protesters when they marched towards the parliament, a police spokesman said.

“A crowd formed in front of the parliament, I don’t know the exact numbers but it was a huge crowd,” the unnamed policeman told the AFP news agency.

“They intended to make the prime minister resign – that’s the public speculation – but we’re still investigating the motives. The important thing is police now have control of the situation and no one is out on the streets.”

He said police were unaware of any injuries.

Many communities in Malaita had forged deep ties with Taipei and the island’s local government has repeatedly complained about&nbsp;embracing China.

(With inputs from agencies)

Curfew has been imposed in Solomon Islands capital Honiara after protesters allegedly burned down a building in the parliament precinct, a police station and a store, amid reports of looting.

Curfew has been imposed in Solomon Islands capital Honiara after protesters allegedly burned down a building in the parliament precinct, a police station and a store, amid reports of looting. The burnt building was reportedly owned by a Chinese national. The agitators were demanding the prime minister, Manasseh Sogavare, to step down over failure to deliver promised infrastructure among other complaints, according to local media reports. According to reports, the protesters belonged to Malaita province, the most populous province in the pacific island country, whose provincial government has had tense relations with the central government for years. Also read | Taiwan leader meets Solomons envoy to shore up ties over China The tensions are also being attributed to Sogavare’s decision in 2019 to cut ties with Taiwan and establish a diplomatic relationship with China—a move that angered Malaita premier Daniel Suidani. Police on Wednesday fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of protesters when they marched towards the parliament, a police spokesman said. “A crowd formed in front of the parliament, I don’t know the exact numbers but it was a huge crowd,” the unnamed policeman told the AFP news agency. “They intended to make the prime minister resign – that’s the public speculation – but we’re still investigating the motives. The important thing is police now have control of the situation and no one is out on the streets.” He said police were unaware of any injuries. Many communities in Malaita had forged deep ties with Taipei and the island’s local government has repeatedly complained about embracing China. (With inputs from agencies)

Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands

The tensions are escalating between China and Taiwan and along with this, there is also talk of war. There is a complex situation between China, Taiwan and the United States that is feeding the public with a sense of crisis in the near future.

EU Parliament delegation visits Taiwan for the 1st time

US President Joe Biden said US would come to Taiwan's defense if attacked China, for the second time in three months. After which, China has urged the US to "avoid sending any false signals".

US President Biden hints at military intervention if China attacks Taiwan, The White House clarifies

Satellite images have revealed China is upgrading and reinforcing its airbases facing towards Taiwan along its southeastern coast, indicating Beijing may be stepping up its plans to take the island by force.

The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation.<o:p></o:p>

The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions,&nbsp;stressed that it will one day re-take the country.<o:p></o:p>

Now, in a congratulatory message to Eric Chu, who has just been elected as the leader of the Kuomintang (KMT) party — which is China-friendly — China's President XI Jinping said the Communist Party and KMT should work together.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-welcomes-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-home-416107">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-welcomes-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-home-416107/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"In the past our two parties insisted on '1992 consensus' and opposing 'Taiwan independence' ... to promote peaceful developments in cross- strait relations," Xi said in the letter released by the KMT.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

He urged the two parties to come together for the ‘unification of the country’ and make sure the ‘grim’ situation is straightened out as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p>

"At present the situation in the Taiwan Strait is complex and grim," he said, urging the parties to jointly seek peace and "the unification of the country."&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Chu has replied back by saying he hopes the two parties will “seek common ground and respect their differences” to ensure and promote peace and stability in the area.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Beijing has been building military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan to admit and follow the idea of “One China”.<o:p></o:p>

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation. The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions, stressed that it will one day re-take the country.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned Taiwan to work on unification of the country and get out of the existing "grim" situation. The self-ruled democratic Taiwan is usually claimed as a part of its territory by China and the Asian country has, on several occasions, stressed that it will one day re-take the country. Now, in a congratulatory message to Eric Chu, who has just been elected as the leader of the Kuomintang (KMT) party — which is China-friendly — China's President XI Jinping said the Communist Party and KMT should work together. WATCH | "In the past our two parties insisted on '1992 consensus' and opposing 'Taiwan independence' ... to promote peaceful developments in cross- strait relations," Xi said in the letter released by the KMT. He urged the two parties to come together for the ‘unification of the country’ and make sure the ‘grim’ situation is straightened out as soon as possible. "At present the situation in the Taiwan Strait is complex and grim," he said, urging the parties to jointly seek peace and "the unification of the country." Chu has replied back by saying he hopes the two parties will “seek common ground and respect their differences” to ensure and promote peace and stability in the area. Meanwhile, Beijing has been building military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan to admit and follow the idea of “One China”.

China warns Taiwan about existing 'grim' situation

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage.

Taiwan+, backed by T$775 million ($28 million) in government funding, will broadcast content online focusing on news, as well as features about Taiwan, from food and tourism to culture and technology.

President Tsai Ing-wen, in a recorded message to the launch party at a Taipei museum, said Taiwan needed a platform to highlight to the world the island`s diversity, democratic achievements and aspiration to contribute to the international community.

"It is our own international media platform, a key part of our collective effort to show what Taiwan has to offer," she said. 
Taiwan+`s founding comes at a time when China is increasingly active in English-language media, putting across the ruling Communist Party`s views to an outside audience, especially via state television`s English language news channel China Global Television Network, or CGTN.

China is also squeezing Taiwan`s international space, including forcing foreign companies to refer to it as being part of China on their websites and routinely carrying out military drills near the island.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/respect-human-rights-and-dignities-taiwans-former-defence-minister-to-china-at-wion-global-summit-372787">Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit</a>

Parliament speaker You Si-kun said Taiwan needs to be able to tell its own stories and confront misconceptions put about by China.

"For a long time, the Chinese Communists have been squeezing Taiwan`s international space and creating a false image of Taiwan, leading to the diplomatic challenges Taiwan now faces," You said.

"In recent years, however, there has been a dramatic change in how the world sees the Chinese Communists. Major democracies around the world are now raising the alarm over China`s rise," he added.

Taiwan already has a handful of domestic English-language media, the most prominent of which is the Taipei Times, founded in 1999 and published by the mass circulation Liberty Times.

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage.

Taiwan launched a new English-language news and media streaming platform on Monday aiming to give it a greater voice on the world stage and help to tackle Beijing`s "squeeze" of the Chinese-claimed island on the world stage. Taiwan+, backed by T$775 million ($28 million) in government funding, will broadcast content online focusing on news, as well as features about Taiwan, from food and tourism to culture and technology. President Tsai Ing-wen, in a recorded message to the launch party at a Taipei museum, said Taiwan needed a platform to highlight to the world the island`s diversity, democratic achievements and aspiration to contribute to the international community. "It is our own international media platform, a key part of our collective effort to show what Taiwan has to offer," she said. Taiwan+`s founding comes at a time when China is increasingly active in English-language media, putting across the ruling Communist Party`s views to an outside audience, especially via state television`s English language news channel China Global Television Network, or CGTN. China is also squeezing Taiwan`s international space, including forcing foreign companies to refer to it as being part of China on their websites and routinely carrying out military drills near the island. Also read | Respect human rights and dignities': Taiwan's Former Defence Minister to China at WION Global Summit Parliament speaker You Si-kun said Taiwan needs to be able to tell its own stories and confront misconceptions put about by China. "For a long time, the Chinese Communists have been squeezing Taiwan`s international space and creating a false image of Taiwan, leading to the diplomatic challenges Taiwan now faces," You said. "In recent years, however, there has been a dramatic change in how the world sees the Chinese Communists. Major democracies around the world are now raising the alarm over China`s rise," he added. Taiwan already has a handful of domestic English-language media, the most prominent of which is the Taipei Times, founded in 1999 and published by the mass circulation Liberty Times.

Facing China ''squeeze'', Taiwan launches English-language news platform

Beijing would find it "deeply destabilising" if the United States were to explicitly state it would come to Taiwan`s defence in the event of a Chinese invasion, the Biden administration`s spy chief said on Thursday.

"From our perspective, if we were to see a US shift from strategic ambiguity, as you`ve identified it, to clarity over a willingness to intervene in a Taiwan contingency, the Chinese would find this deeply destabilizing," Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the Senate Armed Services Committee, as quoted by The Hill.

"I think it would solidify Chinese perceptions that the US is bent on constraining China`s rise, including through military force, and would probably cause Beijing to aggressively undermine U.S. interests worldwide," she added.

From Taipei`s perspective, Haines said, it`s "possible" a US change from "strategic ambiguity" could lead to more Taiwanese movement toward independence." I would say that already Taiwan is hardening to some extent towards independence as they`re watching, essentially, what happened in Hong Kong, and I think that is an increasing challenge," she added.

The director`s comments at the committee's annual worldwide threats hearing come after the outgoing top U.S. military officer for the region suggested it`s time to rethink U.S. policy toward Taiwan.&nbsp;

The Hill reported that under the decades-old policy, the United States maintains "strategic ambiguity" toward Taiwan where it does not explicitly say it would come to the island`s defence in a conflict with China. The policy is aimed at both avoiding, provoking Beijing and not emboldening Taiwan into formally declaring independence, which could lead to a Chinese invasion.&nbsp;

When Asked about the strategic ambiguity policy at a Senate Armed Services hearing last month, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (Indo-Pacom) chief Adm. Philip Davidson said that while the current policy has "helped keep Taiwan in its current status," he believes "these things should be reconsidered routinely."Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, while testifying alongside Haines, said Chinese President Xi Jinping has a goal to "unify Taiwan with China."We don't know that he`s decided on how or when to do that," Berrier added, but noted there has been "an increase in [Chinese military] activity on the sea and the airspace around Taiwan over the last year." This comes as China said its military activities in the Taiwan Strait were targeted at "separatists" in Taiwan and "external forces".

[We] have made full preparation in addressing the separatist activities of Taiwan independence and the interference of external forces," South China Morning Post quoted Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian, as saying. Early this month, in their first in-person meeting at the White House, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US President Joe Biden said in their joint statement that they "underscore the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and "encourage the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues."

Beijing, on the other hand, reacted sharply to the statement and expressed firm opposition to Washington and Tokyo's demand for a 'stable' Taiwan strait.&nbsp;

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea and has overlapping territorial claims with Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan.&nbsp;

China has been increasing its maritime activities in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea over the past few months, partly in response to Beijing`s concerns over the increasing US military presence in the region because of escalating Sino-US tensions.&nbsp;

Beijing's rising assertiveness against counter claimants in the East and South Sea has resulted in unprecedented agreement across the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, although the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades.&nbsp;

Taipei, on the other hand, has countered the Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing.&nbsp;

China has threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war.

Beijing would find it "deeply destabilising" if the United States were to explicitly state it would come to Taiwan`s defence in the event of a Chinese invasion, the Biden administration`s spy chief said on Thursday.

Beijing would find it "deeply destabilising" if the United States were to explicitly state it would come to Taiwan`s defence in the event of a Chinese invasion, the Biden administration`s spy chief said on Thursday. "From our perspective, if we were to see a US shift from strategic ambiguity, as you`ve identified it, to clarity over a willingness to intervene in a Taiwan contingency, the Chinese would find this deeply destabilizing," Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the Senate Armed Services Committee, as quoted by The Hill. "I think it would solidify Chinese perceptions that the US is bent on constraining China`s rise, including through military force, and would probably cause Beijing to aggressively undermine U.S. interests worldwide," she added. From Taipei`s perspective, Haines said, it`s "possible" a US change from "strategic ambiguity" could lead to more Taiwanese movement toward independence." I would say that already Taiwan is hardening to some extent towards independence as they`re watching, essentially, what happened in Hong Kong, and I think that is an increasing challenge," she added. The director`s comments at the committee's annual worldwide threats hearing come after the outgoing top U.S. military officer for the region suggested it`s time to rethink U.S. policy toward Taiwan. The Hill reported that under the decades-old policy, the United States maintains "strategic ambiguity" toward Taiwan where it does not explicitly say it would come to the island`s defence in a conflict with China. The policy is aimed at both avoiding, provoking Beijing and not emboldening Taiwan into formally declaring independence, which could lead to a Chinese invasion. When Asked about the strategic ambiguity policy at a Senate Armed Services hearing last month, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (Indo-Pacom) chief Adm. Philip Davidson said that while the current policy has "helped keep Taiwan in its current status," he believes "these things should be reconsidered routinely."Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, while testifying alongside Haines, said Chinese President Xi Jinping has a goal to "unify Taiwan with China."We don't know that he`s decided on how or when to do that," Berrier added, but noted there has been "an increase in [Chinese military] activity on the sea and the airspace around Taiwan over the last year." This comes as China said its military activities in the Taiwan Strait were targeted at "separatists" in Taiwan and "external forces". [We] have made full preparation in addressing the separatist activities of Taiwan independence and the interference of external forces," South China Morning Post quoted Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian, as saying. Early this month, in their first in-person meeting at the White House, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and US President Joe Biden said in their joint statement that they "underscore the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" and "encourage the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues." Beijing, on the other hand, reacted sharply to the statement and expressed firm opposition to Washington and Tokyo's demand for a 'stable' Taiwan strait. China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea and has overlapping territorial claims with Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan. China has been increasing its maritime activities in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea over the past few months, partly in response to Beijing`s concerns over the increasing US military presence in the region because of escalating Sino-US tensions. Beijing's rising assertiveness against counter claimants in the East and South Sea has resulted in unprecedented agreement across the Indo-Pacific. Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, although the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades. Taipei, on the other hand, has countered the Chinese aggression by increasing strategic ties with democracies including the US, which has been repeatedly opposed by Beijing. China has threatened that "Taiwan`s independence" means war.

China would find change in policy toward Taiwan 'deeply destabilising': US

Taiwanese officials are set to brief the U.S. officials on China's actions in their territory and ask for increased support from Biden in matters of trade, economy and security

'Stay out of Taiwan', China warns Biden

The incursion involved 18 fighter jets, four bombers that can carry nuclear weapons, two anti-submarine aircraft and an early warning aircraft, according to Taiwan's defence ministry.

25 Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan defence zone

China is accelerating moves to supersede American military power in Asia, as a result of which it can invade Taiwan within the next six years, a top US commander has warned.

Taiwan split from China at the end of a civil war in 1949 and exists under the constant threat of invasion by the mainland. Chinese leaders view Taiwan as part of their territory and have vowed to one day take it back.

The US continues to remain the island’s most important unofficial ally -- previously, it wass Donald Trump who embraced warmer ties with the island, and now it is new President Joe Biden whose State Department said in January that its commitment to the island was “rock-solid”. Also, Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the US was formally invited to Biden’s inauguration, an unprecedented move since 1979 -- when Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China.

“I worry that they’re [China] accelerating their ambitions to supplant the United States and our leadership role in the rules-based international order... by 2050,” Washington’s top military officer in Asia-Pacific, Admiral Philip Davidson, told a US Senate armed services committee hearing on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-continue-assisting-taiwans-self-defence-capabilities-says-white-house-369156">Also read |&nbsp;US to continue assisting Taiwan's self-defence capabilities, says White House&nbsp;</a>

“Taiwan is clearly one of their ambitions before that. And I think the threat is manifest during this decade, in fact, in the next six years."

China also has made expansive territorial claims in the resource-rich South China Sea and even threatens the American island of Guam, underlined Davidson.&nbsp;

"Guam is a target today," he warned, recalling that the Chinese military released a video simulating an attack on an island base strongly resembling US facilities in Diego Garcia and Guam.&nbsp;

He called on lawmakers to approve the installation on Guam of an Aegis Ashore anti-missile battery, capable of intercepting the most powerful Chinese missiles in flight.&nbsp;

Guam "needs to be defended and it needs to be prepared for the threats that will come in the future," Davidson said.&nbsp;

In addition to other Aegis missile defence systems destined for Australia and Japan, Davidson called on lawmakers to budget for offensive armaments "to let China know that the costs of what they seek to do are too high."

Davidson said, however, that missile defence was not enough to deter a potential adversary, and countries&nbsp;need to "score some runs to win the match".

(with inputs)

China is accelerating moves to supersede American military power in Asia, as a result of which it can invade Taiwan within the next six years, a top US commander has warned.

China is accelerating moves to supersede American military power in Asia, as a result of which it can invade Taiwan within the next six years, a top US commander has warned. Taiwan split from China at the end of a civil war in 1949 and exists under the constant threat of invasion by the mainland. Chinese leaders view Taiwan as part of their territory and have vowed to one day take it back. The US continues to remain the island’s most important unofficial ally -- previously, it wass Donald Trump who embraced warmer ties with the island, and now it is new President Joe Biden whose State Department said in January that its commitment to the island was “rock-solid”. Also, Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the US was formally invited to Biden’s inauguration, an unprecedented move since 1979 -- when Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. “I worry that they’re [China] accelerating their ambitions to supplant the United States and our leadership role in the rules-based international order... by 2050,” Washington’s top military officer in Asia-Pacific, Admiral Philip Davidson, told a US Senate armed services committee hearing on Tuesday. Also read | US to continue assisting Taiwan's self-defence capabilities, says White House “Taiwan is clearly one of their ambitions before that. And I think the threat is manifest during this decade, in fact, in the next six years." China also has made expansive territorial claims in the resource-rich South China Sea and even threatens the American island of Guam, underlined Davidson. "Guam is a target today," he warned, recalling that the Chinese military released a video simulating an attack on an island base strongly resembling US facilities in Diego Garcia and Guam. He called on lawmakers to approve the installation on Guam of an Aegis Ashore anti-missile battery, capable of intercepting the most powerful Chinese missiles in flight. Guam "needs to be defended and it needs to be prepared for the threats that will come in the future," Davidson said. In addition to other Aegis missile defence systems destined for Australia and Japan, Davidson called on lawmakers to budget for offensive armaments "to let China know that the costs of what they seek to do are too high." Davidson said, however, that missile defence was not enough to deter a potential adversary, and countries need to "score some runs to win the match". (with inputs)

China could invade Taiwan in next six years, top US commander warns

China on Wednesday accused a top US commander of attempting to "hype up" the threat of an invasion of Taiwan to inflate Washington's defence spend.

The US' top military officer in Asia-Pacific, Admiral Philip Davidson, on Tuesday said China could invade Taiwan within the next six years. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos">Pictures: Thousands of Tibetans protest on the 62nd anniversary of the uprising against China</a> 
 
Taiwan split from China at the end of a civil war in 1949 and exists under the constant threat of invasion by the mainland. Chinese leaders view Taiwan as part of their territory and have vowed to one day take it back.

"Taiwan is clearly one of their ambitions before that. And I think the threat is manifest during this decade, in fact, in the next six years," Davidson told a US Senate committee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-could-invade-taiwan-in-next-six-years-top-us-commander-warns-369267">Also read | China could invade Taiwan in next six years, top US commander warns</a>

Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, to this end, told reporters in Beijing: "Some US people continue to use the Taiwan issue to hype up China's military threat."

"But in essence this is the US searching for a pretext to increase its military spending, expand its forces and interfere in regional affairs."

Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979, but remains the island's most important unofficial ally and military backer.

The US continues to remain the island’s most important unofficial ally -- earlier, it was Donald Trump who embraced warmer ties with the island, and now it is new President Joe Biden whose State Department said in January that its commitment to the island was “rock-solid”.&nbsp;

China also has made expansive territorial claims in the resource-rich South China Sea and even threatens the American island of Guam, underlined Davidson.&nbsp;

"Guam is a target today," he warned, recalling that the Chinese military released a video simulating an attack on an island base strongly resembling US facilities in Diego Garcia and Guam.&nbsp;

China on Wednesday accused a top US commander of attempting to "hype up" the threat of an invasion of Taiwan to inflate Washington's defence spend. The US' top military officer in Asia-Pacific, Admiral Philip Davidson, on Tuesday said China could invade Taiwan within the next six years.

China on Wednesday accused a top US commander of attempting to "hype up" the threat of an invasion of Taiwan to inflate Washington's defence spend. The US' top military officer in Asia-Pacific, Admiral Philip Davidson, on Tuesday said China could invade Taiwan within the next six years. Pictures: Thousands of Tibetans protest on the 62nd anniversary of the uprising against China Taiwan split from China at the end of a civil war in 1949 and exists under the constant threat of invasion by the mainland. Chinese leaders view Taiwan as part of their territory and have vowed to one day take it back. "Taiwan is clearly one of their ambitions before that. And I think the threat is manifest during this decade, in fact, in the next six years," Davidson told a US Senate committee. Also read | China could invade Taiwan in next six years, top US commander warns Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian, to this end, told reporters in Beijing: "Some US people continue to use the Taiwan issue to hype up China's military threat." "But in essence this is the US searching for a pretext to increase its military spending, expand its forces and interfere in regional affairs." Washington switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979, but remains the island's most important unofficial ally and military backer. The US continues to remain the island’s most important unofficial ally -- earlier, it was Donald Trump who embraced warmer ties with the island, and now it is new President Joe Biden whose State Department said in January that its commitment to the island was “rock-solid”. China also has made expansive territorial claims in the resource-rich South China Sea and even threatens the American island of Guam, underlined Davidson. "Guam is a target today," he warned, recalling that the Chinese military released a video simulating an attack on an island base strongly resembling US facilities in Diego Garcia and Guam.

China accuses US admiral of 'hyping up' threat of Taiwan invasion

China on Thursday warned Taiwan that "independence means war" after recent stepped up military activities near the island.

Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, reported multiple Chinese fighter jets and bombers entering its southwestern air defence identification zone last weekend, prompting Washington to urge Beijing to stop pressuring Taiwan.

Beijing, to this end, said its armed forces were only acting in response to provocation and foreign interference.

China believes that Taiwan's democratically-elected government is moving the island towards a declaration of formal independence, though Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has repeatedly said it is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name.

Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian recently said Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

"The military activities carried out by the Chinese People's Liberation Army in the Taiwan Strait are necessary actions to address the current security situation in the Taiwan Strait and to safeguard national sovereignty and security," he said.

"They are a solemn response to external interference and provocations by 'Taiwan independence' forces," he added.

Wu said a "handful" of people in Taiwan were seeking the island's independence.

"We warn those 'Taiwan independence' elements: those who play with fire will burn themselves, and 'Taiwan independence' means war," he added.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said China should think carefully and not underestimate the island's determination to defend its sovereignty and uphold freedom and democracy.

The Chinese incursions coincided with a U.S. carrier battle group entering the disputed South China Sea to promote "freedom of the seas".

China routinely describes Taiwan as its most important and sensitive issue in relations with the United States, which under the former Trump administration ramped up support for the island in terms of arms sales and senior officials visiting Taipei.

Taiwan has denounced China's threats and efforts at intimidation, and Tsai has vowed to defend the island's freedom and not be coerced.

President Joe Biden's government, in office for a week, has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan as being "rock solid", potentially auguring further strains with Beijing.

China on Thursday warned Taiwan that "independence means war" after recent stepped up military activities near the island. Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, reported multiple Chinese fighter jets and bombers entering its southwestern air defence identification zone last weekend, prompting Washington to urge Beijing to stop pressuring Taiwan.

China on Thursday warned Taiwan that "independence means war" after recent stepped up military activities near the island. Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, reported multiple Chinese fighter jets and bombers entering its southwestern air defence identification zone last weekend, prompting Washington to urge Beijing to stop pressuring Taiwan. Beijing, to this end, said its armed forces were only acting in response to provocation and foreign interference. China believes that Taiwan's democratically-elected government is moving the island towards a declaration of formal independence, though Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has repeatedly said it is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name. Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian recently said Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. "The military activities carried out by the Chinese People's Liberation Army in the Taiwan Strait are necessary actions to address the current security situation in the Taiwan Strait and to safeguard national sovereignty and security," he said. "They are a solemn response to external interference and provocations by 'Taiwan independence' forces," he added. Wu said a "handful" of people in Taiwan were seeking the island's independence. "We warn those 'Taiwan independence' elements: those who play with fire will burn themselves, and 'Taiwan independence' means war," he added. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said China should think carefully and not underestimate the island's determination to defend its sovereignty and uphold freedom and democracy. The Chinese incursions coincided with a U.S. carrier battle group entering the disputed South China Sea to promote "freedom of the seas". China routinely describes Taiwan as its most important and sensitive issue in relations with the United States, which under the former Trump administration ramped up support for the island in terms of arms sales and senior officials visiting Taipei. Taiwan has denounced China's threats and efforts at intimidation, and Tsai has vowed to defend the island's freedom and not be coerced. President Joe Biden's government, in office for a week, has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan as being "rock solid", potentially auguring further strains with Beijing.

China warns Taiwan that independence 'means war'

The Chinese government, in its first official comment on its warplanes flying near Taiwan last weekend, said Wednesday that such actions are a "solemn warning'' to both foreign interference in Taiwan and any independence moves.&nbsp;

Armed and ready to go,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;air force jets screamed into the sky on Tuesday in a drill to simulate a war scenario, showing its fleet's battle readiness after dozens of Chinese warplanes flew into the island's air defence zone over the weekend.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-fighter-jets-enter-taiwans-airspace-for-second-consecutive-day-359185">Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan's airspace for second consecutive day</a>

Chinese air force planes including 12 fighter jets entered&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone for a second day on Sunday,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;said, as tensions rise near the island just days into US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's new administration.

Taiwan, claimed by China as its territory, has been on edge since the large-scale incursion by Chinese fighters and nuclear-capable bombers into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone on Saturday and Sunday, which coincided with a US&nbsp;carrier group entering the South China Sea.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said that China's military drills are to show the nation's resolution to protect its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.&nbsp;

Zhu said that China would not renounce the use of force to guard against separatist moves and foreign interference.&nbsp;

"Our position has been consistent and will not change," she said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supports-taiwan-over-reported-chinese-incursions-358984">US supports Taiwan over reported Chinese incursions</a>

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said China sent six J-10 fighters, four J-16s, two SU-30s, a Y-8 reconnaissance aircraft and two Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft&nbsp;into the country's air defence identification zone on Saturday, according to Taiwan's Defense Ministry. Taiwan scrambled fighters to monitor the activity.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;State Department later issued a statement urging China "to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan" following China's sizeable show of force.&nbsp;

Taiwan is a self-governing island about 160 kilometres (100 miles) off China's east coast. The Chinese government regards it as a renegade province that should be united with mainland China.&nbsp;

Taiwan's air force is well trained, but has far fewer combat aircraft than China and has strained under the pressure of almost constantly having to scramble in recent months, responding to stepped-up Chinese activity near the island.

The Chinese government, in its first official comment on its warplanes flying near Taiwan last weekend, said Wednesday that such actions are a "solemn warning'' to both foreign interference in Taiwan and any independence moves.

The Chinese government, in its first official comment on its warplanes flying near Taiwan last weekend, said Wednesday that such actions are a "solemn warning'' to both foreign interference in Taiwan and any independence moves. Armed and ready to go, Taiwan air force jets screamed into the sky on Tuesday in a drill to simulate a war scenario, showing its fleet's battle readiness after dozens of Chinese warplanes flew into the island's air defence zone over the weekend. Also read: Chinese fighter jets enter Taiwan's airspace for second consecutive day Chinese air force planes including 12 fighter jets entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone for a second day on Sunday, Taiwan said, as tensions rise near the island just days into US President Joe Biden's new administration. Taiwan, claimed by China as its territory, has been on edge since the large-scale incursion by Chinese fighters and nuclear-capable bombers into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone on Saturday and Sunday, which coincided with a US carrier group entering the South China Sea. Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said that China's military drills are to show the nation's resolution to protect its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zhu said that China would not renounce the use of force to guard against separatist moves and foreign interference. "Our position has been consistent and will not change," she said. Also read: US supports Taiwan over reported Chinese incursions Taiwan's Defence Ministry said China sent six J-10 fighters, four J-16s, two SU-30s, a Y-8 reconnaissance aircraft and two Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft into the country's air defence identification zone on Saturday, according to Taiwan's Defense Ministry. Taiwan scrambled fighters to monitor the activity. The US State Department later issued a statement urging China "to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan" following China's sizeable show of force. Taiwan is a self-governing island about 160 kilometres (100 miles) off China's east coast. The Chinese government regards it as a renegade province that should be united with mainland China. Taiwan's air force is well trained, but has far fewer combat aircraft than China and has strained under the pressure of almost constantly having to scramble in recent months, responding to stepped-up Chinese activity near the island.

China says military exercises a 'solemn warning' to Taiwan

The US lifting of restrictions on interactions with Taiwanese officials is a "big thing", Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Monday.

He further described it as a major boost for relations with the island's most important global backer.

"This is a big thing for the elevation of Taiwan-US relations," Wu told reporters, expressing his "sincere gratitude" to the US government. "Taiwan-US relations have been elevated to a global partnership. The foreign ministry will not let our guard down and hope to continue to boost the development of Taiwan-US ties."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the move on Saturday, in the waning days of the Trump administration ahead of Joe Biden assuming the US presidency on January 20.

China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has yet to formally respond, but the move is likely to increase Sino-US tensions as Biden prepares to take over.

Although the United States, like most countries, has no official ties with Taiwan, it is bound by law to provide it with the means to defend itself, and under President Donald Trump has ramped up arms sales and sent senior officials to Taipei.

On Wednesday, US ambassador to the United Nations, Kelly Craft, will arrive in Taipei for a three-day visit, which China has denounced.

Wu said both he and President Tsai Ing-wen would meet Craft on Thursday. The topic for the visit is to discuss how to promote Taiwan's international participation.

Craft's visit is highly symbolic, as Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations nor most global bodies because of China's objections. Beijing says only it has the right to speak for Taiwan on the international stage.

Taiwan says only its democratically elected government has this right.

(with inputs)

The US lifting of restrictions on interactions with Taiwanese officials is a "big thing", Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Monday. He further described it as a major boost for relations with the island's most important global backer.

The US lifting of restrictions on interactions with Taiwanese officials is a "big thing", Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Monday. He further described it as a major boost for relations with the island's most important global backer. "This is a big thing for the elevation of Taiwan-US relations," Wu told reporters, expressing his "sincere gratitude" to the US government. "Taiwan-US relations have been elevated to a global partnership. The foreign ministry will not let our guard down and hope to continue to boost the development of Taiwan-US ties." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the move on Saturday, in the waning days of the Trump administration ahead of Joe Biden assuming the US presidency on January 20. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has yet to formally respond, but the move is likely to increase Sino-US tensions as Biden prepares to take over. Although the United States, like most countries, has no official ties with Taiwan, it is bound by law to provide it with the means to defend itself, and under President Donald Trump has ramped up arms sales and sent senior officials to Taipei. On Wednesday, US ambassador to the United Nations, Kelly Craft, will arrive in Taipei for a three-day visit, which China has denounced. Wu said both he and President Tsai Ing-wen would meet Craft on Thursday. The topic for the visit is to discuss how to promote Taiwan's international participation. Craft's visit is highly symbolic, as Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations nor most global bodies because of China's objections. Beijing says only it has the right to speak for Taiwan on the international stage. Taiwan says only its democratically elected government has this right. (with inputs)

Taiwan praises US move to lift restrictions on ties

China has rejected the latest offer of talks from Taiwan, saying the government was engaging in a "cheap trick" and provocation by seeking confrontation at every turn.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen offered another olive branch to Beijing in her New Year's speech on Friday. She said Taiwan was ready to have "meaningful" talks with China as equals as long as they are willing to put aside confrontation.

China views the democratic and self-governed island as its own territory, and cut off a formal talks mechanism in 2016 after Tsai was first elected, viewing her as a separatist bent on a formal declaration of independence.

In a statement late on Friday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office said there was no way of changing the reality that the island was part of China, and the refusal of Taiwan`s government to accept that was the root cause of present tensions.

Since 2016, Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) "has continued to provoke by seeking independence, confronting the mainland at every turn, deliberately creating confrontation across the Taiwan Strait", it said.

Tensions have risen in recent months with China ramping up its military activities near the island, including on occasion flying fighter jets across the median line of the narrow Taiwan Strait, which usually serves as an unofficial buffer.

China says it is responding to "collusion" between Washington and Taipei, angered at growing US support for the island. Beijing views this as a precursor to Taiwan declaring formal independence, a red line for China.

Tsai, re-elected by a landslide last year on a pledge to stand up to China and defend Taiwan's democracy and security, has repeatedly said Taiwan is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name.

China has rejected the latest offer of talks from Taiwan, saying the government was engaging in a "cheap trick" and provocation by seeking confrontation at every turn.

China has rejected the latest offer of talks from Taiwan, saying the government was engaging in a "cheap trick" and provocation by seeking confrontation at every turn. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen offered another olive branch to Beijing in her New Year's speech on Friday. She said Taiwan was ready to have "meaningful" talks with China as equals as long as they are willing to put aside confrontation. China views the democratic and self-governed island as its own territory, and cut off a formal talks mechanism in 2016 after Tsai was first elected, viewing her as a separatist bent on a formal declaration of independence. In a statement late on Friday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office said there was no way of changing the reality that the island was part of China, and the refusal of Taiwan`s government to accept that was the root cause of present tensions. Since 2016, Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) "has continued to provoke by seeking independence, confronting the mainland at every turn, deliberately creating confrontation across the Taiwan Strait", it said. Tensions have risen in recent months with China ramping up its military activities near the island, including on occasion flying fighter jets across the median line of the narrow Taiwan Strait, which usually serves as an unofficial buffer. China says it is responding to "collusion" between Washington and Taipei, angered at growing US support for the island. Beijing views this as a precursor to Taiwan declaring formal independence, a red line for China. Tsai, re-elected by a landslide last year on a pledge to stand up to China and defend Taiwan's democracy and security, has repeatedly said Taiwan is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name.

China rejects latest offer of talks by Taiwan

Taiwan is ready to have “meaningful” talks with China as equals as long as they are willing to put aside confrontation, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Friday, offering another olive branch to Beijing in her New Year’s speech.

Taiwan President: Willing to hold talks with China as equals

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said the Shandong, which was formally commissioned almost exactly one year ago, accompanied by four warships had set out from the northern Chinese port of Dalian.

Taiwan deploys 8 fighter aircrafts, 6 warships after passage of Chinese warship

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further.&nbsp;

A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media.

Shih, who is also a former chief economist for Chinese conglomerate Huaxia Group, was found guilty by a Chinese court on Tuesday, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office said at a press briefing.

Shih -- who disappeared after travelling to the mainland in August 2018 -- was one of several Taiwanese residents who appeared on a television programme by state broadcaster CCTV in October confessing to spying on the mainland.

CCTV often broadcasts interviews with suspects admitting to crimes, even before they have appeared in court -- a practice that has long been condemned by lawyers and rights organisations as forcing confessions under duress.

Shih said in the interview that he had passed information from a mainland think tank to Taiwan authorities in exchange for money, and that he hoped his experience would serve as a "warning" to others in Taiwan.

On Wednesday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said a court in Anhui province had sentenced Shih to four years' imprisonment, a year after China first said it was investigating Shih on national security grounds.

China had "fully safeguarded" Shih's rights&nbsp;during the hearing, she said.

Taiwan has been run as a de facto independent nation for the last seven decades but China sees it as part of its territory, to be reclaimed by force if necessary.

Tensions between Beijing and the democratically ruled island have ramped up in recent months.

Chinese fighter jets and bombers have entered Taiwan's air defence zone with increasing frequency in recent months, and high-profile arms sales by the US to Taipei have angered Beijing.

At least two other Taiwanese individuals are currently being held on national security grounds in China, including the scholar Tsai Chin-shu and democracy activist Lee Meng-chu.

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further. A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media.

China has sentenced a Taiwanese professor to four years in jail for espionage even as tensions between Beijing and Taipei deteriorate further. A month ago, Shih Cheng-ping had made a televised "confession" on state media. Shih, who is also a former chief economist for Chinese conglomerate Huaxia Group, was found guilty by a Chinese court on Tuesday, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office said at a press briefing. Shih -- who disappeared after travelling to the mainland in August 2018 -- was one of several Taiwanese residents who appeared on a television programme by state broadcaster CCTV in October confessing to spying on the mainland. CCTV often broadcasts interviews with suspects admitting to crimes, even before they have appeared in court -- a practice that has long been condemned by lawyers and rights organisations as forcing confessions under duress. Shih said in the interview that he had passed information from a mainland think tank to Taiwan authorities in exchange for money, and that he hoped his experience would serve as a "warning" to others in Taiwan. On Wednesday, China's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said a court in Anhui province had sentenced Shih to four years' imprisonment, a year after China first said it was investigating Shih on national security grounds. China had "fully safeguarded" Shih's rights during the hearing, she said. Taiwan has been run as a de facto independent nation for the last seven decades but China sees it as part of its territory, to be reclaimed by force if necessary. Tensions between Beijing and the democratically ruled island have ramped up in recent months. Chinese fighter jets and bombers have entered Taiwan's air defence zone with increasing frequency in recent months, and high-profile arms sales by the US to Taipei have angered Beijing. At least two other Taiwanese individuals are currently being held on national security grounds in China, including the scholar Tsai Chin-shu and democracy activist Lee Meng-chu.

China sentences Taiwanese professor to four years in jail

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday.

This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen.

China's widely-read Global Times tabloid has said the list could include senior Taiwanese government officials.

Pro-Beijing Hong Kong-based newspaper Ta Kung Pao first reported on it this month, after which Taiwan condemned the plan.

China claims self-governing Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan's government says the island is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, although China rejects this position.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said the "list of diehard Taiwan secessionists" now under consideration was only aimed at a very small number of independence supporters and those who fund them.

"It is absolutely not aimed at the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots," she told a regular news briefing in Beijing.

Zhu added Beijing would take "targeted steps to severely punish in accordance with the law" those it viewed as hard-core backers of independence.

Chinese media have said the 2005 Anti-Secession Law, which mandates the use of force if China judges Taiwan to have declared independence, as well as national security legislation, could be used to charge those on the list.

It is unclear how that would play out, as Chinese courts have no jurisdiction in Taiwan, and Taiwan's government leaders do not visit China.

The moves follows Beijing's July unveiling of new national security laws for Chinese-run Hong Kong that prescribe sentences ranging up to life terms for crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday. This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen.

China is weighing drawing up a blacklist of supporters of Taiwan's independence, the government said on Wednesday. This exercise may see Beijing try to take legal steps against democratically-elected President Tsai Ing-wen. China's widely-read Global Times tabloid has said the list could include senior Taiwanese government officials. Pro-Beijing Hong Kong-based newspaper Ta Kung Pao first reported on it this month, after which Taiwan condemned the plan. China claims self-governing Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan's government says the island is already an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, although China rejects this position. Zhu Fenglian, a spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, said the "list of diehard Taiwan secessionists" now under consideration was only aimed at a very small number of independence supporters and those who fund them. "It is absolutely not aimed at the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots," she told a regular news briefing in Beijing. Zhu added Beijing would take "targeted steps to severely punish in accordance with the law" those it viewed as hard-core backers of independence. Chinese media have said the 2005 Anti-Secession Law, which mandates the use of force if China judges Taiwan to have declared independence, as well as national security legislation, could be used to charge those on the list. It is unclear how that would play out, as Chinese courts have no jurisdiction in Taiwan, and Taiwan's government leaders do not visit China. The moves follows Beijing's July unveiling of new national security laws for Chinese-run Hong Kong that prescribe sentences ranging up to life terms for crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

China considers legal steps against supporters of Taiwan independence

China on Wednesday accused the United States of sending out ''wrong signals'' to the&nbsp;Taiwan military forces on the potential drone sale deal.

Wang Wenbin,&nbsp;spokesman of the ministry told a regular briefing in Beijing said ''China will take legitimate and necessary responses in light of the changing circumstances.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taiwan-defence-deal-taiwan-buys-jets-from-lockheed-martin-320755/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The US&nbsp;State Department cleared the potential sale of four sophisticated US-made aerial drones to Taiwan in a formal notification sent to Congress, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, the last step before finalising a weapons sale.

The $600 million deal would be the first such sale since US&nbsp;policy on the export of sophisticated and closely guarded&nbsp;drone&nbsp;technology was loosened by the Trump administration.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defying-china-us-announces-24-billion-sale-of-coastal-defense-systems-to-taiwan-338183">Defying China, US announces $2.4 billion sale of coastal defense systems to Taiwan</a>

Beijing considers Taiwan a wayward province that it has vowed to bring under control, by force if necessary. Washington considers it an important democratic outpost and is required by law to provide it with the means to defend itself.

In Taipei, Taiwan's foreign ministry thanked the US&nbsp;government for its "security assurance" and said the arms sales will further boost Taiwan's defence capacity.

The U.S. State Department's formal notification gives Congress 30 days to object to any sales, which is unlikely given broad bipartisan support for the defense of Taiwan.

The four MQ-9 SeaGuardian&nbsp;drones, made by General Atomics Aeronautical System, Inc of San Diego, California, would come with associated ground stations, spares, and training. While the&nbsp;drones are armable, they will be outfitted with surveillance equipment.

On October&nbsp;21, the State Department sent notifications to Congress for the first tranche of arms sales to Taiwan. They included truck-based rocket launchers made by Lockheed Martin Corp, Rocket System (HIMARS) Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response (SLAM-ER) missiles and related equipment made by Boeing Co, and external sensor pods for F-16 jets.

On October&nbsp;26 the United States moved ahead with the proposed sale of 100 cruise missile stations and 400 land-based Harpoon anti-ship missiles made by Boeing Co.

China on Wednesday accused the United States of sending out ''wrong signals'' to the Taiwan military forces on the potential drone sale deal. Wang Wenbin, spokesman of the ministry told a regular briefing in Beijing said ''China will take legitimate and necessary responses in light of the changing circumstances.

China on Wednesday accused the United States of sending out ''wrong signals'' to the Taiwan military forces on the potential drone sale deal. Wang Wenbin, spokesman of the ministry told a regular briefing in Beijing said ''China will take legitimate and necessary responses in light of the changing circumstances.'' The US State Department cleared the potential sale of four sophisticated US-made aerial drones to Taiwan in a formal notification sent to Congress, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, the last step before finalising a weapons sale. The $600 million deal would be the first such sale since US policy on the export of sophisticated and closely guarded drone technology was loosened by the Trump administration. Also read: Defying China, US announces $2.4 billion sale of coastal defense systems to Taiwan Beijing considers Taiwan a wayward province that it has vowed to bring under control, by force if necessary. Washington considers it an important democratic outpost and is required by law to provide it with the means to defend itself. In Taipei, Taiwan's foreign ministry thanked the US government for its "security assurance" and said the arms sales will further boost Taiwan's defence capacity. The U.S. State Department's formal notification gives Congress 30 days to object to any sales, which is unlikely given broad bipartisan support for the defense of Taiwan. The four MQ-9 SeaGuardian drones, made by General Atomics Aeronautical System, Inc of San Diego, California, would come with associated ground stations, spares, and training. While the drones are armable, they will be outfitted with surveillance equipment. On October 21, the State Department sent notifications to Congress for the first tranche of arms sales to Taiwan. They included truck-based rocket launchers made by Lockheed Martin Corp, Rocket System (HIMARS) Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response (SLAM-ER) missiles and related equipment made by Boeing Co, and external sensor pods for F-16 jets. On October 26 the United States moved ahead with the proposed sale of 100 cruise missile stations and 400 land-based Harpoon anti-ship missiles made by Boeing Co.

China accuses US of sending 'wrong signals' to Taiwan with drone deal

The Chinese military is stepping up the militarisation of its southeast coast as it prepares for a possible invasion of Taiwan.

According to an article published in the&nbsp;Hong Kong-based newspaper,&nbsp;The South China Morning Post, the People’s Liberation Army has been upgrading its missile bases, and one Beijing-based military source said it has deployed its most advanced hypersonic missile the DF-17 to the area.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-exclusive-taiwan-fears-a-chinese-military-invasion-336991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“The DF-17 hypersonic missile will gradually replace the old DF-11s and DF-15s that were deployed in the southeast region for decades,” the source, who requested anonymity, because of the sensitivity of the topic. “the new missile has a longer range and is able to hit targets more accurately.”

The DF-17, which has a maximum range of 2,500km (1,550 miles), made its first public appearance on last year’s October 1 national day parade to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-puts-pressure-on-nations-to-not-recognise-taiwan-as-a-country-foreign-minister-joseph-wu-tells-wion-336966" hreflang="en">China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION</a>

Beijing regards Taiwan as a breakaway province which it has vowed to take back, by force if necessary. Relations between Beijing and Taipei have deteriorated since Tsai ing-wen from the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was elected as president in 2016 and refused to accept the one-China principle.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-taiwan-extends-a-hand-of-friendship-to-india-336993/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The deployment of missiles on the coasts of Fujian and Zhejiang provinces previously peaked during the presidency of Tsai's DPP predecessor Chen Shui-ban.

Ties have come under further strain this year as Taipei moved closer to the united states and signed a series of arms deals, including for patriot missiles and an upgrade to its f-16 viper jets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-protecting-freedom-and-democracy-from-authoritarianism-taiwans-foreign-minister-to-wion-336978" hreflang="en">We are protecting freedom and democracy from authoritarianism: Taiwan's foreign minister to WION</a>

Satellite images show that both the marine corps and rocket force bases in Fujian and Guangdong provinces have expanded in recent years, according to Andrei chang, editor-in-chief of the Canada-based Kanwa defense review.

“Every rocket force brigade in Fujian and Guangdong is now fully equipped,” he said.

“The size of some of the missile bases in the eastern and southern theatre commands have even doubled in recent years, showing the PLA is stepping up preparations for a war targeting Taiwan.”

The Chinese military is stepping up the militarisation of its southeast coast as it prepares for a possible invasion of Taiwan. According to an article published in the Hong Kong-based newspaper, The South China Morning Post, the People’s Liberation Army has been upgrading its missile bases, and one Beijing-based military source said it has deployed its most advanced hypersonic missile the DF-17 to the area.

The Chinese military is stepping up the militarisation of its southeast coast as it prepares for a possible invasion of Taiwan. According to an article published in the Hong Kong-based newspaper, The South China Morning Post, the People’s Liberation Army has been upgrading its missile bases, and one Beijing-based military source said it has deployed its most advanced hypersonic missile the DF-17 to the area. “The DF-17 hypersonic missile will gradually replace the old DF-11s and DF-15s that were deployed in the southeast region for decades,” the source, who requested anonymity, because of the sensitivity of the topic. “the new missile has a longer range and is able to hit targets more accurately.” The DF-17, which has a maximum range of 2,500km (1,550 miles), made its first public appearance on last year’s October 1 national day parade to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Also read: China puts pressure on nations to not recognise Taiwan as a country: Foreign Minister Joseph Wu tells WION Beijing regards Taiwan as a breakaway province which it has vowed to take back, by force if necessary. Relations between Beijing and Taipei have deteriorated since Tsai ing-wen from the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was elected as president in 2016 and refused to accept the one-China principle. The deployment of missiles on the coasts of Fujian and Zhejiang provinces previously peaked during the presidency of Tsai's DPP predecessor Chen Shui-ban. Ties have come under further strain this year as Taipei moved closer to the united states and signed a series of arms deals, including for patriot missiles and an upgrade to its f-16 viper jets. Also read: We are protecting freedom and democracy from authoritarianism: Taiwan's foreign minister to WION Satellite images show that both the marine corps and rocket force bases in Fujian and Guangdong provinces have expanded in recent years, according to Andrei chang, editor-in-chief of the Canada-based Kanwa defense review. “Every rocket force brigade in Fujian and Guangdong is now fully equipped,” he said. “The size of some of the missile bases in the eastern and southern theatre commands have even doubled in recent years, showing the PLA is stepping up preparations for a war targeting Taiwan.”

China hints imminent military invasion of Taiwan as it steps up coastal forces

Taiwan's government on Tuesday labelled&nbsp;China's new spying accusation are ''fake news'' and called it an ''attempt to frame innocent people''.

China claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has in recent weeks stepped up military activity near the island, including flying fighter jets over the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-claims-manipulation-after-china-shows-spy-confession-334594">Taiwan claims manipulation after China shows spy 'confession'</a>

Late Monday, for the second night in a row, Chinese state television aired a programme showing a Taiwanese academic called Cheng Yu-chin, who&nbsp;had previously taught in the Czech Republic and was arrested in China in April of last year.

Earlier, it had shown a video&nbsp;showing a Taiwanese citizen Morrison Lee, confessing to visiting Hong Kong to support anti-government protesters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-sorry-taiwanese-detained-in-china-confesses-on-state-tv-334533">Also read |&nbsp;'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV</a>

The report said Cheng had formerly worked as an assistant to Cho Jung-tai, once chairman of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and showed Cheng on camera admitting that he knew his actions were "harmful" to China.

However both Cho and the DPP said Cheng had never worked for him. Cho, in a statement on his Facebook page, said he didn't even know Cheng.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said in a separate statement that neither they nor the Straits Exchange Foundation, a semi-official body that handles some relations with China, had been approached by any family members to request help.

The council condemned China for putting Cheng on television to make a confession, and said China was playing politics by trying to frame people for spying.

Taiwan's government on Tuesday labelled China's new spying accusation are ''fake news'' and called it an ''attempt to frame innocent people''. China claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has in recent weeks stepped up military activity near the island, including flying fighter jets over the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan's government on Tuesday labelled China's new spying accusation are ''fake news'' and called it an ''attempt to frame innocent people''. China claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has in recent weeks stepped up military activity near the island, including flying fighter jets over the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait. Also read: Taiwan claims manipulation after China shows spy 'confession' Late Monday, for the second night in a row, Chinese state television aired a programme showing a Taiwanese academic called Cheng Yu-chin, who had previously taught in the Czech Republic and was arrested in China in April of last year. Earlier, it had shown a video showing a Taiwanese citizen Morrison Lee, confessing to visiting Hong Kong to support anti-government protesters. Also read | 'I am sorry': Taiwanese detained in China confesses on state TV The report said Cheng had formerly worked as an assistant to Cho Jung-tai, once chairman of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), and showed Cheng on camera admitting that he knew his actions were "harmful" to China. However both Cho and the DPP said Cheng had never worked for him. Cho, in a statement on his Facebook page, said he didn't even know Cheng. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council said in a separate statement that neither they nor the Straits Exchange Foundation, a semi-official body that handles some relations with China, had been approached by any family members to request help. The council condemned China for putting Cheng on television to make a confession, and said China was playing politics by trying to frame people for spying.

Taiwan labels China latest spy accusation as 'fake'

Taiwan's defence minister said on Thursday that the People's Liberation Army has&nbsp;mounted thousands of incursions into the island’s defense zone this year&nbsp;due to which it&nbsp;has exhausted 8 per cent of its defence budget.

Mainland China’s repeated military incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone are meant to drain the island’s air force and establish the PLA as a regular presence in the area.

China, which claims democratic&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island, responding to what it&nbsp;calls "collusion" between&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-china-against-any-attempt-to-take-taiwan-by-force-333453">US warns China against any attempt to take Taiwan by force</a>

Earlier, the United States&nbsp;national security adviser on Wednesday cautioned China&nbsp;against any attempt to take Taiwan by force.

He reminded China that the United States is required by law to provide&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;with the means to defend itself and pointed out any attempt an ''amphibious landing'' would be problematic due to&nbsp;to the 100-mile (160-km) distance between the countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-has-spent-almost-900-million-scrambling-against-china-this-year-333087">Taiwan says has spent almost $900 million scrambling against China this year</a>

China has been angered at increased US&nbsp;support for&nbsp;Taiwan, including visits by senior US&nbsp;government officials and ramped up arms sales.

In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid line of the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait, which normally serves as an unofficial buffer zone, and flown multiple missions into&nbsp;Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone.

Speaking at parliament,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Defence Minister Yen De-fa said to the air force had scrambled 2,972 times against Chinese aircraft this year at a cost of T$25.5 billion ($886.49 million).

"Recently the pressure has been great. To say otherwise would be deceiving people," Yen said, without giving a comparison figure for last year.

He clarified that a figure of 4,132 air force missions this year, as provided in a ministry parliamentary briefing paper, included training and regular patrol missions.

Yen said that the armed forces would this month carry out their own drills off&nbsp;Taiwan's southwest coast, though they would not be live fire.

Taiwan's armed forces are well-trained and well-equipped but are dwarfed by those of China's, and&nbsp;Taiwan's Defence Ministry has previously acknowledged the strain the repeated Chinese drills were placing on them.

Taiwan&nbsp;is in the process of revamping its fighter fleet.

The United States last year approved an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to&nbsp;Taiwan, a deal that would bring the island's total number of the aircraft to more than 200, the largest F-16 fleet in Asia.

Taiwan's defence minister said on Thursday that the People's Liberation Army has mounted thousands of incursions into the island’s defense zone this year due to which it has exhausted 8 per cent of its defence budget.

Taiwan's defence minister said on Thursday that the People's Liberation Army has mounted thousands of incursions into the island’s defense zone this year due to which it has exhausted 8 per cent of its defence budget. Mainland China’s repeated military incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone are meant to drain the island’s air force and establish the PLA as a regular presence in the area. China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island, responding to what it calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States. Also read: US warns China against any attempt to take Taiwan by force Earlier, the United States national security adviser on Wednesday cautioned China against any attempt to take Taiwan by force. He reminded China that the United States is required by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and pointed out any attempt an ''amphibious landing'' would be problematic due to to the 100-mile (160-km) distance between the countries. Also read: Taiwan says has spent almost $900 million scrambling against China this year China has been angered at increased US support for Taiwan, including visits by senior US government officials and ramped up arms sales. In the past few weeks, Chinese fighter jets have crossed the mid line of the Taiwan Strait, which normally serves as an unofficial buffer zone, and flown multiple missions into Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone. Speaking at parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Yen De-fa said to the air force had scrambled 2,972 times against Chinese aircraft this year at a cost of T$25.5 billion ($886.49 million). "Recently the pressure has been great. To say otherwise would be deceiving people," Yen said, without giving a comparison figure for last year. He clarified that a figure of 4,132 air force missions this year, as provided in a ministry parliamentary briefing paper, included training and regular patrol missions. Yen said that the armed forces would this month carry out their own drills off Taiwan's southwest coast, though they would not be live fire. Taiwan's armed forces are well-trained and well-equipped but are dwarfed by those of China's, and Taiwan's Defence Ministry has previously acknowledged the strain the repeated Chinese drills were placing on them. Taiwan is in the process of revamping its fighter fleet. The United States last year approved an $8 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, a deal that would bring the island's total number of the aircraft to more than 200, the largest F-16 fleet in Asia.

China is trying to wear out Taiwan's Air Force by incursions, says defence minister

Taiwan refused to be intimated by China's aggressive posturing in the South China sea. Taiwan military says that it reserves right to self defence and counter attack.

Taiwan refused to be intimated by China's aggressive posturing in the South China sea

China's aggressive posturing in the South China sea continues, But Taiwan not intimidated

The last two days of Chinese aircraft approaching Taiwan demonstrate that Beijing is a threat to the entire region and have shown Taiwanese even more clearly the true nature of China`s government, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday.

Multiple Chinese aircraft flew across the mid line of the Taiwan Strait and into Taiwan`s air defence identification zone on Friday and Saturday, causing Taiwan to scramble jets to intercept. China claims Taiwan as its own territory.

At a news conference in Beijing on Friday about China`s U.N. peacekeeping efforts, China announced combat drills near the Taiwan Strait and denounced what it called collusion between the island and the United States.

The exercises took place as U.S. Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach was in Taipei, the most senior State Department office to come in four decades.

Speaking to reporters, Tsai denounced China`s drills.

"I believe these activities are no help to China`s international image, and what`s more have put Taiwan`s people even more on their guard, understanding even better the true nature of the Chinese Communist regime," she said.

"Additionally, other countries in the region also have a better understanding of the threat posed by China," Tsai added.

"The Chinese Communists must restrain themselves, and not provoke."

China`s air force on Saturday put out a video showing its nuclear capable H-6 bombers, which have been involved in many Chinese fly-bys of Taiwan, exercising.

One montage shows a simulation of an H-6 attack against an air base which appears by its runway layout to be the main U.S. air force base on Guam.

Asked about that footage, and China`s decision to release it while Krach was in Taiwan, Tsai said China`s recent activities where a threat broader than just to Taiwan.

"China`s existence is indeed aggressive and will bring a definite threat."

China has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control. Most people in democratic Taiwan have shown no interest in being run by autocratic China.

The last two days of Chinese aircraft approaching Taiwan demonstrate that Beijing is a threat to the entire region and have shown Taiwanese even more clearly the true nature of China`s government, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday.

The last two days of Chinese aircraft approaching Taiwan demonstrate that Beijing is a threat to the entire region and have shown Taiwanese even more clearly the true nature of China`s government, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Sunday. Multiple Chinese aircraft flew across the mid line of the Taiwan Strait and into Taiwan`s air defence identification zone on Friday and Saturday, causing Taiwan to scramble jets to intercept. China claims Taiwan as its own territory. At a news conference in Beijing on Friday about China`s U.N. peacekeeping efforts, China announced combat drills near the Taiwan Strait and denounced what it called collusion between the island and the United States. The exercises took place as U.S. Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach was in Taipei, the most senior State Department office to come in four decades. Speaking to reporters, Tsai denounced China`s drills. "I believe these activities are no help to China`s international image, and what`s more have put Taiwan`s people even more on their guard, understanding even better the true nature of the Chinese Communist regime," she said. "Additionally, other countries in the region also have a better understanding of the threat posed by China," Tsai added. "The Chinese Communists must restrain themselves, and not provoke." China`s air force on Saturday put out a video showing its nuclear capable H-6 bombers, which have been involved in many Chinese fly-bys of Taiwan, exercising. One montage shows a simulation of an H-6 attack against an air base which appears by its runway layout to be the main U.S. air force base on Guam. Asked about that footage, and China`s decision to release it while Krach was in Taiwan, Tsai said China`s recent activities where a threat broader than just to Taiwan. "China`s existence is indeed aggressive and will bring a definite threat." China has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control. Most people in democratic Taiwan have shown no interest in being run by autocratic China.

Taiwan president says drills show China is threat to whole region

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen pledged stronger ties with the United States at a dinner for a visiting senior State Department official.

Incidentally, this happened on the same day China sent 18 fighter jets to harry the island to express its anger at the trip.

China had earlier on Friday announced combat drills and denounced what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States. Taiwan scrambled its air force in response.

US Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach arrived in Taipei on Thursday for a three-day visit, the most senior State Department official to come to Taiwan in four decades.

Hosting a dinner for Krach and his team at her official residence, Tsai thanked him for coming to attend Saturday's memorial service for late President Lee Teng-hui, the father of Taiwan's democracy, the presidential office said in a statement late Friday.

"I hope that Taiwan and the United States continue to work together to promote peace, stability, prosperity, and development in the Indo-Pacific, positively impacting the region," it cited Tsai as saying.

Taiwan-US relations have made substantive progress in recent years "with increasingly close interaction. I hope that we are able to engage on even more issues and expand our bilateral cooperation, enhancing our relationship as trusted partners and building a solid foundation for the future."

Taiwan is committed to deepening economic cooperation with the United States, Tsai said.

The statement made no mention of the Chinese drills.

Taiwan has been angling to sign a free trade deal with the United States, and has been keen to show Washington the economic benefits Taiwan can bring.

In May, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd said it plans to build a $12 billion factory in Arizona in an apparent win for the Trump administration's efforts to wrestle global tech supply chains back from China. 
&nbsp;

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen pledged stronger ties with the United States at a dinner for a visiting senior State Department official. Incidentally, this happened on the same day China sent 18 fighter jets to harry the island to express its anger at the trip.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen pledged stronger ties with the United States at a dinner for a visiting senior State Department official. Incidentally, this happened on the same day China sent 18 fighter jets to harry the island to express its anger at the trip. China had earlier on Friday announced combat drills and denounced what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States. Taiwan scrambled its air force in response. US Undersecretary for Economic Affairs Keith Krach arrived in Taipei on Thursday for a three-day visit, the most senior State Department official to come to Taiwan in four decades. Hosting a dinner for Krach and his team at her official residence, Tsai thanked him for coming to attend Saturday's memorial service for late President Lee Teng-hui, the father of Taiwan's democracy, the presidential office said in a statement late Friday. "I hope that Taiwan and the United States continue to work together to promote peace, stability, prosperity, and development in the Indo-Pacific, positively impacting the region," it cited Tsai as saying. Taiwan-US relations have made substantive progress in recent years "with increasingly close interaction. I hope that we are able to engage on even more issues and expand our bilateral cooperation, enhancing our relationship as trusted partners and building a solid foundation for the future." Taiwan is committed to deepening economic cooperation with the United States, Tsai said. The statement made no mention of the Chinese drills. Taiwan has been angling to sign a free trade deal with the United States, and has been keen to show Washington the economic benefits Taiwan can bring. In May, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd said it plans to build a $12 billion factory in Arizona in an apparent win for the Trump administration's efforts to wrestle global tech supply chains back from China.

Taiwan set for stronger ties with US as Chinese jets harry island

Krach, the highest-level State Department official to visit the island in decades, is to meet Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and other senior officials

China threatens necessary response to US-Taiwan meet

Multiple Chinese fighter jets entered airspace to Taiwan's southwest on Wednesday, said the island's defence ministry, describing it as a destabilising action which threatened regional peace.

Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has repeatedly complained of Chinese military activities near the island, including regular air force patrols. China says such drills demonstrate its resolve to protect its sovereignty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-slams-large-scale-chinese-drills-near-island-326665">Taiwan slams large-scale Chinese drills near island</a>

China has in the last few weeks mounted numerous exercises up and down its coast and near Taiwan.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the Chinese Su-30 and J-10 fighters had entered Taiwan's "response zone" to its southwest on Wednesday morning, adding that multiple aircraft were involved.

"The Defence Ministry solemnly condemns the Chinese Communist's unilateral actions that damage regional peace and stability," it added.

Taiwan's armed forces are able to respond quickly and appropriately to such movements, the military said, calling on people not to be alarmed.

Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan issued 24 verbal warnings over the radio for the Chinese aircraft to leave.

Taiwan is currently carrying out live fire weapons tests off its southeast and eastern coast.

There was no immediate comment from China.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen warned last month that the risk of accidental conflict was rising because of tension in the South China Sea and around Taiwan and communication must be maintained to reduce the risk of miscalculation. 
&nbsp;

Multiple Chinese fighter jets entered airspace to Taiwan's southwest on Wednesday, said the island's defence ministry, describing it as a destabilising action which threatened regional peace.

Multiple Chinese fighter jets entered airspace to Taiwan's southwest on Wednesday, said the island's defence ministry, describing it as a destabilising action which threatened regional peace. Taiwan, claimed by China as its own territory, has repeatedly complained of Chinese military activities near the island, including regular air force patrols. China says such drills demonstrate its resolve to protect its sovereignty. Also read | Taiwan slams large-scale Chinese drills near island China has in the last few weeks mounted numerous exercises up and down its coast and near Taiwan. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the Chinese Su-30 and J-10 fighters had entered Taiwan's "response zone" to its southwest on Wednesday morning, adding that multiple aircraft were involved. "The Defence Ministry solemnly condemns the Chinese Communist's unilateral actions that damage regional peace and stability," it added. Taiwan's armed forces are able to respond quickly and appropriately to such movements, the military said, calling on people not to be alarmed. Taiwan's Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan issued 24 verbal warnings over the radio for the Chinese aircraft to leave. Taiwan is currently carrying out live fire weapons tests off its southeast and eastern coast. There was no immediate comment from China. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen warned last month that the risk of accidental conflict was rising because of tension in the South China Sea and around Taiwan and communication must be maintained to reduce the risk of miscalculation.

Taiwan condemns after China deploys fighter jets in region's southwest

china-taiwan

China Taiwan, News on China Taiwan, stories on China Taiwan, articles on China Taiwan, China Taiwan stories at Wion, China Taiwan news, China Taiwan latest news

china taiwan

Protesters burn down parliament building, police station in Solomon Islands

EU Parliament delegation visits Taiwan for the 1st time

US President Biden hints at military intervention if China attacks Taiwan, The White House clarifies

US President Biden hints at military intervention if China attacks Taiwan, The White House clarifies

The tension between China and Taiwan at their highest

China warns Taiwan about existing 'grim' situation

Facing China ''squeeze'', Taiwan launches English-language news platform

China would find change in policy toward Taiwan 'deeply destabilising': US

'Stay out of Taiwan', China warns Biden

25 Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan defence zone

China could invade Taiwan in next six years, top US commander warns

China accuses US admiral of 'hyping up' threat of Taiwan invasion

China warns Taiwan that independence 'means war'

China says military exercises a 'solemn warning' to Taiwan

Taiwan praises US move to lift restrictions on ties

China rejects latest offer of talks by Taiwan

Taiwan President: Willing to hold talks with China as equals

Taiwan deploys 8 fighter aircrafts, 6 warships after passage of Chinese warship

Taiwan deploys 8 fighter aircrafts, 6 warships after passage of Chinese warship

China sentences Taiwanese professor to four years in jail

China considers legal steps against supporters of Taiwan independence

China accuses US of sending 'wrong signals' to Taiwan with drone deal

China hints imminent military invasion of Taiwan as it steps up coastal forces

Taiwan labels China latest spy accusation as 'fake'

China is trying to wear out Taiwan's Air Force by incursions, says defence minister

Taiwan refused to be intimated by China's aggressive posturing in the South China sea