In a development which can hike the tensions in already sensitive Taiwan Strait, a US warship again sailed through the area on Tuesday. &nbsp;

The movement was part of what the US military calls a routine activity, which always attracts sharp reaction from China, who believes Washington is trying to stir tensions in the region. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-taiwan-acquires-us-jets-china-commissions-advanced-fighter-aircraft-431216" hreflang="en">After Taiwan acquires US jets, China commissions advanced fighter aircraft</a>

In accordance with international law, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer Milius conducted a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" through international waters, the US Navy said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows," it added. &nbsp;

There was no immediate response from China. &nbsp;

Earlier, after US destroyer USS Dewey along with the Canadian frigate HMCS Winnipeg sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese military condemned the move. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-seek-hegemony-or-bully-the-small-president-xi-to-asean-431225" hreflang="en">China will not seek hegemony or bully the small: President Xi to ASEAN</a>

"Dewey's and Winnipeg's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US military had declared. &nbsp;

However, the Chinese military asserted that "Taiwan is part of Chinese territory" while adding that it maintained a "high level" of alert against "threats and provocations". &nbsp;

The Chinese military said, "The United States and Canada colluded to provoke and stir up trouble... seriously jeopardising peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a development which can hike the tensions in already sensitive Taiwan Strait, a US warship again sailed through the area on Tuesday. The movement was part of what the US military calls a routine activity, which always attracts sharp reaction from China, who believes Washington is trying to stir tensions in the region.

In a development which can hike the tensions in already sensitive Taiwan Strait, a US warship again sailed through the area on Tuesday. The movement was part of what the US military calls a routine activity, which always attracts sharp reaction from China, who believes Washington is trying to stir tensions in the region. Also Read: After Taiwan acquires US jets, China commissions advanced fighter aircraft In accordance with international law, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer Milius conducted a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" through international waters, the US Navy said. "The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows," it added. There was no immediate response from China. Earlier, after US destroyer USS Dewey along with the Canadian frigate HMCS Winnipeg sailed through the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese military condemned the move. Also Read: China will not seek hegemony or bully the small: President Xi to ASEAN "Dewey's and Winnipeg's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the commitment of the United States and our allies and partners to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US military had declared. However, the Chinese military asserted that "Taiwan is part of Chinese territory" while adding that it maintained a "high level" of alert against "threats and provocations". The Chinese military said, "The United States and Canada colluded to provoke and stir up trouble... seriously jeopardising peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait." (With inputs from agencies)

US Navy warship passes through tense Taiwan Strait

Taiwan Strait is in news again. After a US warship conducted a 'routine' transit through the strait recently, a British warship HMS Richmond travelled through the same area on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
After a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea, we are now en route through the Taiwan Strait to visit <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vietnam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vietnam</a> and the Vietnam People's Navy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSG21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSG21</a> International by design <a href="https://t.co/0bys9eYY42">pic.twitter.com/0bys9eYY42</a>
— HMS Richmond (@HMS_Richmond) <a href="https://twitter.com/HMS_Richmond/status/1442189189320151047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The development is a rare voyage by a non-US military vessel as the US has been regularly performing "freedom of navigation" voyages in the strait. This waterway separates Taiwan and mainland China. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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In last some months, tensions have been continuously rising between China and Taiwan, and the regular transits by the warships of other countries have been only enraging Beijing further. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-white-paper-claims-rise-in-uyghur-population-in-xinjiang-416308" hreflang="en">China's white paper claims rise in Uyghur population in Xinjiang</a>

In a tweet, HMS Richmond, a frigate deployed with Britain's aircraft carrier strike group, said, "After a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea, we are now en route through the Taiwan Strait to visit Vietnam and the Vietnam People's Navy." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Confirming reports, Taiwan's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that a foreign vessel sailed through the waterway but did not state which country it was from. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-taiwan-about-existing-grim-situation-416172" hreflang="en">China warns Taiwan about existing 'grim' situation</a>

China claims Taiwan as a breakaway province, which it has said will be unified with the mainland by force if necessary.

Chinese jets have been repeatedly entering Taiwan's airspace in recent months with over 380 incursions reported into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) earlier. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taiwan Strait is in news again. After a US warship conducted a 'routine' transit through the strait recently, a British warship HMS Richmond travelled through the same area on Monday.

Taiwan Strait is in news again. After a US warship conducted a 'routine' transit through the strait recently, a British warship HMS Richmond travelled through the same area on Monday. After a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea, we are now en route through the Taiwan Strait to visit #Vietnam and the Vietnam People's Navy. #CSG21 International by design pic.twitter.com/0bys9eYY42 — HMS Richmond (@HMS_Richmond) September 26, 2021 × The development is a rare voyage by a non-US military vessel as the US has been regularly performing "freedom of navigation" voyages in the strait. This waterway separates Taiwan and mainland China. Watch: × In last some months, tensions have been continuously rising between China and Taiwan, and the regular transits by the warships of other countries have been only enraging Beijing further. Also Read: China's white paper claims rise in Uyghur population in Xinjiang In a tweet, HMS Richmond, a frigate deployed with Britain's aircraft carrier strike group, said, "After a busy period working with partners and allies in the East China Sea, we are now en route through the Taiwan Strait to visit Vietnam and the Vietnam People's Navy." Confirming reports, Taiwan's defence minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that a foreign vessel sailed through the waterway but did not state which country it was from. Also Read: China warns Taiwan about existing 'grim' situation China claims Taiwan as a breakaway province, which it has said will be unified with the mainland by force if necessary. Chinese jets have been repeatedly entering Taiwan's airspace in recent months with over 380 incursions reported into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

In ‘rare transit’, British warship HMS Richmond crosses Taiwan Strait

A British warship has sailed through the Taiwan Strait , a move that is most likely to anger China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

UK warship sails through Taiwan Strait, Beijing likely to be angered | WION News | English News

US President Joe Biden in a televised speech said &nbsp;he would direct states to make all adults eligible for the coronavirus vaccine by May 1 while urging Americans to get vaccinated and to continue to follow social distancing rules and wear face masks

Meanwhile, a&nbsp;day after a top US commander's warning of a Chinese invasion threat to Taiwan, a US warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday which the US Navy said was the third such voyage since president Joe Biden took office.

Thomas Andrew told the UN Human Rights Council&nbsp;that more than half of those who were killed in Myanmar were under the age of 25.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-eyes-next-stage-of-covid-19-fight-slams-attacks-on-asian-americans-during-pandemic-369816">Biden eyes next stage of Covid-19 fight, slams attacks on Asian Americans during pandemic</a>

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Biden's&nbsp;televised address on Thursday came hours after signing his $1.9 trillion stimulus bill into law -- his first major win in office some 50 days into his administration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/free-and-open-indo-pacific-us-destroyer-transits-through-taiwan-strait-369818">'Free and open Indo-Pacific': US destroyer transits through Taiwan Strait</a>

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The&nbsp;Arleigh Burke-class&nbsp;guided-missile destroyer&nbsp;USS John Finn&nbsp;transited through the Taiwan Strait

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-half-of-those-murdered-in-myanmar-belong-to-generation-z-un-human-rights-expert-369822">More than half of those murdered in Myanmar belong to Generation Z: UN human rights expert</a>

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Thomas Andrew told the&nbsp;UN Human Rights Council&nbsp;that more than half of those who were killed in Myanmar were under the age of 25.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-half-of-those-murdered-in-myanmar-belong-to-generation-z-un-human-rights-expert-369822">Homeless man arrested after roaming air base housing Biden's plane for five hours</a>

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The unauthorised intruder at Joint Base Andrews made his way onto a C-40 transport plane on the tarmac, but did not get close to Air Force One or the secretary of defense's dedicated Boeing 747s.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-india-banned-huawei-and-zte-369805">Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas -&nbsp;Has India banned Huawei and ZTE?</a>

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US President Joe Biden in a televised speech said he would direct states to make all adults eligible for the coronavirus vaccine by May 1 while urging Americans to get vaccinated and to continue to follow social distancing rules and wear face masks Meanwhile, a day after a top US commander's warning of a Chinese invasion threat to Taiwan, a US warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday which the US Navy said was the third such voyage since president Joe Biden took office.

US President Joe Biden in a televised speech said he would direct states to make all adults eligible for the coronavirus vaccine by May 1 while urging Americans to get vaccinated and to continue to follow social distancing rules and wear face masks Meanwhile, a day after a top US commander's warning of a Chinese invasion threat to Taiwan, a US warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday which the US Navy said was the third such voyage since president Joe Biden took office. Thomas Andrew told the UN Human Rights Council that more than half of those who were killed in Myanmar were under the age of 25. Click on headlines to read more Biden eyes next stage of Covid-19 fight, slams attacks on Asian Americans during pandemic Biden's televised address on Thursday came hours after signing his $1.9 trillion stimulus bill into law -- his first major win in office some 50 days into his administration. 'Free and open Indo-Pacific': US destroyer transits through Taiwan Strait The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Finn transited through the Taiwan Strait More than half of those murdered in Myanmar belong to Generation Z: UN human rights expert Thomas Andrew told the UN Human Rights Council that more than half of those who were killed in Myanmar were under the age of 25. Homeless man arrested after roaming air base housing Biden's plane for five hours The unauthorised intruder at Joint Base Andrews made his way onto a C-40 transport plane on the tarmac, but did not get close to Air Force One or the secretary of defense's dedicated Boeing 747s. Watch: Gravitas - Has India banned Huawei and ZTE?

Morning news brief: US destroyer transits through Taiwan Strait, UN fears 'crimes against humanity' in Myanmar

China on Thursday conducted "mid-course anti-ballistic missile (ABM) technical test", the Global Times reported.

Watch:

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China's ministry of national defence said the test was conducted within its borders and "reached the desired objective".

The test is of defensive nature and is not aimed at any country, the statement added.

The missile test comes amid heightened tensions between China and Taiwan even as the Biden administration expressed strong support for the self-ruled island.&nbsp;

Taiwan had reported Chinese jets and bombers had entered its air defence zone as it deployed air defence missile systems. China said it was necessary to "safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity."

China's Taiwan affairs spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said: "solemnly warn external forces to stop interference and sternly warn... separatist forces to stop provocations" while stressing that it reserves the option to "take all measures" including the use of force.

On Thursday, a US warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait in the first such voyage since the inauguration of President Joe Biden last month.

The Seventh Fleet said: "The voyage by the USS John S. McCain demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific". "The United States military will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows" even as China said it was "closely monitoring" the situation.

Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said China would "continue to be on high alert at all times, respond to all threats and provocations at any moment, and will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity".

China on Thursday conducted "mid-course anti-ballistic missile (ABM) technical test", the Global Times reported. Watch: China's ministry of national defence said the test was conducted within its borders and "reached the desired objective".

China on Thursday conducted "mid-course anti-ballistic missile (ABM) technical test", the Global Times reported. Watch: China's ministry of national defence said the test was conducted within its borders and "reached the desired objective". The test is of defensive nature and is not aimed at any country, the statement added. The missile test comes amid heightened tensions between China and Taiwan even as the Biden administration expressed strong support for the self-ruled island. Taiwan had reported Chinese jets and bombers had entered its air defence zone as it deployed air defence missile systems. China said it was necessary to "safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity." China's Taiwan affairs spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said: "solemnly warn external forces to stop interference and sternly warn... separatist forces to stop provocations" while stressing that it reserves the option to "take all measures" including the use of force. On Thursday, a US warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait in the first such voyage since the inauguration of President Joe Biden last month. The Seventh Fleet said: "The voyage by the USS John S. McCain demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific". "The United States military will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows" even as China said it was "closely monitoring" the situation. Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said China would "continue to be on high alert at all times, respond to all threats and provocations at any moment, and will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity".

China conducts mid-course anti-ballistic missile test: Report

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

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.S. official held talks in Taipei.

China had earlier announced the start of combat drills near the Taiwan Strait, denouncing what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States.

U.S. 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 - which China had said would prompt a "necessary response".

Beijing has watched with growing alarm the ever-closer relationship between Taipei and Washington, and has stepped up military exercises near the island, including two days of large-scale air and sea drills last week.

With a U.S. presidential election looming in November, Sino-U.S. relations are under huge strain from a trade war, U.S. digital security concerns and the coronavirus pandemic.

Taiwan said 18 Chinese aircraft were involved on Friday, a far larger number than it has previously announced for such encounters.

"Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ," the defence ministry said in an English-language tweet.

"ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities." The ROCAF, Taiwan`s air force, has scrambled frequently in recent months in response to Chinese intrusions.

The ministry showed a map of the flight paths of Chinese jets crossing the Taiwan Strait mid-line, which normally combat aircraft from both sides avoid passing through.

Taiwan`s Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan air force jets had scrambled 17 times on Friday morning over four hours, warning China`s air force to stay away.

It also showed a picture of missiles being loaded onto an F-16 fighter at the Hualien air base on Taiwan`s east coast.

At a press conference on Friday morning a Chinese defence ministry spokesman said Beijing was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait" when asked how Beijing would respond to Krach's visit.

"This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang told reporters.

Ren also warned that the Chinese army had "sufficient ability" to counter any external threat or challenge from Taiwan separatists.

Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory, to be absorbed into the Chinese mainland — by force if necessary.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/real-possibility-of-war-taiwan-calls-for-global-coalition-against-china-328167">Also read|&nbsp;'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China</a>

Relations between the United States and China are at their lowest point in decades, with the two sides clashing over a range of trade, military and security issues as well as the coronavirus pandemic.

China's Communist leadership baulks at any recognition of Taiwan — which has been ruled separately from China since the end of a civil war in 1949 — and has mounted a decades-long policy of marginalising the democratic island.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-defends-military-drills-near-taiwan-after-it-condemns-serious-provocation-327845">Also read|&nbsp;China defends military drills near Taiwan after it condemns 'serious provocation'</a>

Ren accused the United States of "frequently causing trouble" over Taiwan, which he said "is purely China's internal affairs, and we won't tolerate any external interference".

In recent weeks, Taiwan has reported a sharp rise in incursions by Chinese jets into its air defence identification zone.

Washington's increased outreach to Taiwan under US President Donald Trump has become yet another flashpoint between China and America, with US cabinet member Alex Azar visiting last month.

Washington said Krach was visiting Taiwan to attend a memorial service for late president Lee Teng-hui. He will also meet with foreign minister Joseph Wu, and is scheduled to join President Tsai Ing-wen for dinner at her official residence Friday.

Chinese fighter jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait last month as the U.S. Health Secretary Alex Azar was in Taipei, and last week China carried out two days of large-scale drills off Taiwan`s southwestern coast.

The United States, like most countries, has official ties only with China, not Taiwan, though Washington is the island`s main arms supplier and most important international backer.

This week, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations had lunch with Taiwan`s top envoy in New York. China`s U.N. mission said it had lodged "stern representations" over the meeting.

(with inputs from agencies)

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.

Taiwan scrambled fighter jets on Friday as 18 Chinese aircraft buzzed the island, including crossing the sensitive mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in an escalation of tensions as a senior U.S. official held talks in Taipei. China had earlier announced the start of combat drills near the Taiwan Strait, denouncing what it called collusion between the island, which it claims as part of its territory, and the United States. U.S. 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 - which China had said would prompt a "necessary response". Beijing has watched with growing alarm the ever-closer relationship between Taipei and Washington, and has stepped up military exercises near the island, including two days of large-scale air and sea drills last week. With a U.S. presidential election looming in November, Sino-U.S. relations are under huge strain from a trade war, U.S. digital security concerns and the coronavirus pandemic. Taiwan said 18 Chinese aircraft were involved on Friday, a far larger number than it has previously announced for such encounters. "Sep. 18, two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighters, four J-10 fighters and four J-11 fighters crossed the midline of the TaiwanStrait and entered Taiwan`s southwest ADIZ," the defence ministry said in an English-language tweet. "ROCAF scrambled fighters, and deployed air defence missile system to monitor the activities." The ROCAF, Taiwan`s air force, has scrambled frequently in recent months in response to Chinese intrusions. The ministry showed a map of the flight paths of Chinese jets crossing the Taiwan Strait mid-line, which normally combat aircraft from both sides avoid passing through. Taiwan`s Liberty Times newspaper said Taiwan air force jets had scrambled 17 times on Friday morning over four hours, warning China`s air force to stay away. It also showed a picture of missiles being loaded onto an F-16 fighter at the Hualien air base on Taiwan`s east coast. At a press conference on Friday morning a Chinese defence ministry spokesman said Beijing was "holding actual combat exercises near the Taiwan Strait" when asked how Beijing would respond to Krach's visit. "This is a legitimate and necessary action taken to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait," Ren Guoqiang told reporters. Ren also warned that the Chinese army had "sufficient ability" to counter any external threat or challenge from Taiwan separatists. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory, to be absorbed into the Chinese mainland — by force if necessary. Also read| 'Real possibility of war': Taiwan calls for global coalition against China Relations between the United States and China are at their lowest point in decades, with the two sides clashing over a range of trade, military and security issues as well as the coronavirus pandemic. China's Communist leadership baulks at any recognition of Taiwan — which has been ruled separately from China since the end of a civil war in 1949 — and has mounted a decades-long policy of marginalising the democratic island. Also read| China defends military drills near Taiwan after it condemns 'serious provocation' Ren accused the United States of "frequently causing trouble" over Taiwan, which he said "is purely China's internal affairs, and we won't tolerate any external interference". In recent weeks, Taiwan has reported a sharp rise in incursions by Chinese jets into its air defence identification zone. Washington's increased outreach to Taiwan under US President Donald Trump has become yet another flashpoint between China and America, with US cabinet member Alex Azar visiting last month. Washington said Krach was visiting Taiwan to attend a memorial service for late president Lee Teng-hui. He will also meet with foreign minister Joseph Wu, and is scheduled to join President Tsai Ing-wen for dinner at her official residence Friday. Chinese fighter jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait last month as the U.S. Health Secretary Alex Azar was in Taipei, and last week China carried out two days of large-scale drills off Taiwan`s southwestern coast. The United States, like most countries, has official ties only with China, not Taiwan, though Washington is the island`s main arms supplier and most important international backer. This week, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations had lunch with Taiwan`s top envoy in New York. China`s U.N. mission said it had lodged "stern representations" over the meeting. (with inputs from agencies)

Taiwan scrambles jets as 18 Chinese planes buzz island

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait on Monday and were tracked by&nbsp;Taiwanese missiles,&nbsp;Taiwan's government said, as US&nbsp;health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support.

The aircraft were tracked by land-based&nbsp;Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling&nbsp;Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry.

Azar arrived in&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;on Sunday, the highest-level US&nbsp;official to visit in four decades. Azar's viist&nbsp;is the highest-level US&nbsp;Official visit to Taiwan in decades.

Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus.

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"Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of&nbsp;Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai.

Taking Beijing's one-China policy head on, Azar said, "This visit represents an acknowledgement of the US and Taiwan's deep friendship and partnership across security, economics, health care, and democratic, open, transparent values". 
&nbsp; 
Taiwan has been successful in containing the wuhan virus pandemic.

Azar's visit comes at a time when&nbsp;US-China relation have hit a rock bottom. Both countries are slapping each other with sanctions. There is an ongoing trade war and a blamegame over the Wuhan virus pandemic.

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support.

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support. The aircraft were tracked by land-based Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry. Azar arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, the highest-level US official to visit in four decades. Azar's viist is the highest-level US Official visit to Taiwan in decades. Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with Taiwan and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus. "Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai. Taking Beijing's one-China policy head on, Azar said, "This visit represents an acknowledgement of the US and Taiwan's deep friendship and partnership across security, economics, health care, and democratic, open, transparent values". Taiwan has been successful in containing the wuhan virus pandemic. Azar's visit comes at a time when US-China relation have hit a rock bottom. Both countries are slapping each other with sanctions. There is an ongoing trade war and a blamegame over the Wuhan virus pandemic.

China sends fighter jets as US health chief visits Taiwan

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US&nbsp;health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support.

Azar arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, the highest-level US&nbsp;official to visit in four decades.&nbsp;

China, which claims the island as its own, condemned the visit which comes after a period of sharply deteriorating relations between China and the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ongoing-historic-visit-to-taiwan-a-true-honour-for-trump-administration-319305" hreflang="en">Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration</a>

China, which had promised unspecified retaliation to the trip, flew J-11 and J-10 fighter aircraft briefly onto Taiwan's side of the sensitive and narrow strait that separates it from its giant neighbour, at around 9 am (0100 GMT), shortly before Azar met Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's air force said.

The aircraft were tracked by land-based Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry.&nbsp;

China's defence ministry did not immediately comment.

A senior Taiwan official familiar with the government's security planning told Reuters that China was obviously "targeting" Azar's visit with a "very risky" move given the Chinese jets were in range of Taiwan's missiles.

The incursion was only the third time since 2016 that Taiwan has said Chinese jets had crossed the strait's median line.

The Trump administration has made strengthening its support for the democratic island a priority, amid deteriorating relations between Washington and Beijing, and has boosted arms sales.

"It's a true honour to be here to convey a message of strong support and friendship from President Trump to Taiwan," Azar told Tsai in the Presidential Office, standing in front of two Taiwanese flags.

Washington broke off official ties with Taipei in 1979 in favour of Beijing.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-sends-highest-representative-to-taiwan-since-1979-alex-azar-visit-us-taiwan-319234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'HUGE STEP'

Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with Taiwan and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus.

"Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai.

Taiwan's early and effective steps to fight the disease have kept its case numbers far lower than those of its neighbours, with 480 infections and seven deaths. Most cases have been imported.

The United States, which has had more coronavirus cases and deaths than any other country, has repeatedly clashed with China over the pandemic, accusing Beijing of lacking transparency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-targeting-us-election-infrastructure-with-cyberattacks-says-trumps-aide-319279" hreflang="en">China targeting US election infrastructure with cyberattacks, says Trump's aide</a>

Tsai told Azar his visit represented "a huge step forward in anti-pandemic collaborations between our countries", mentioning areas of cooperation including vaccine and drug research and production.

Taiwan has been particularly grateful for U.S. support to permit its attendance at the World Health Organization's decision-making body the World Health Assembly (WHA), and to allow it greater access to the organisation.

Taiwan is not a member of the WHO due to China's objections. China considers Taiwan a Chinese province.

"I'd like to reiterate that political considerations should never take precedence over the rights to health. The decision to bar Taiwan from participating in the WHA is a violation of the universal rights to health," Tsai said.

Azar later told reporters that at Trump's direction, he and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had sought to restore Taiwan's status as an observer at the WHA.

"But the Chinese Communist Party and the World Health Organization have prevented that. This has been one of the major frustrations that the Trump administration has had with the World Health Organization and its inability to reform."

Chinese air force jets briefly crossed the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday and were tracked by Taiwanese missiles, Taiwan's government said, as US health chief Alex Azar visited the island to offer President Donald Trump's support. Azar arrived in Taiwan on Sunday, the highest-level US official to visit in four decades. China, which claims the island as its own, condemned the visit which comes after a period of sharply deteriorating relations between China and the United States. Also read: Ongoing historic visit to Taiwan a 'true honour' for Trump administration China, which had promised unspecified retaliation to the trip, flew J-11 and J-10 fighter aircraft briefly onto Taiwan's side of the sensitive and narrow strait that separates it from its giant neighbour, at around 9 am (0100 GMT), shortly before Azar met Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's air force said. The aircraft were tracked by land-based Taiwanese anti-aircraft missiles and were "driven out" by patrolling Taiwanese aircraft, the air force said in a statement released by the defence ministry. China's defence ministry did not immediately comment. A senior Taiwan official familiar with the government's security planning told Reuters that China was obviously "targeting" Azar's visit with a "very risky" move given the Chinese jets were in range of Taiwan's missiles. The incursion was only the third time since 2016 that Taiwan has said Chinese jets had crossed the strait's median line. The Trump administration has made strengthening its support for the democratic island a priority, amid deteriorating relations between Washington and Beijing, and has boosted arms sales. "It's a true honour to be here to convey a message of strong support and friendship from President Trump to Taiwan," Azar told Tsai in the Presidential Office, standing in front of two Taiwanese flags. Washington broke off official ties with Taipei in 1979 in favour of Beijing. 'HUGE STEP' Azar is visiting to strengthen economic and public-health cooperation with Taiwan and support its international role in fighting the novel coronavirus. "Taiwan's response to COVID-19 has been among the most successful in the world, and that is a tribute to the open, transparent, democratic nature of Taiwan's society and culture," he told Tsai. Taiwan's early and effective steps to fight the disease have kept its case numbers far lower than those of its neighbours, with 480 infections and seven deaths. Most cases have been imported. The United States, which has had more coronavirus cases and deaths than any other country, has repeatedly clashed with China over the pandemic, accusing Beijing of lacking transparency. Also read: China targeting US election infrastructure with cyberattacks, says Trump's aide Tsai told Azar his visit represented "a huge step forward in anti-pandemic collaborations between our countries", mentioning areas of cooperation including vaccine and drug research and production. Taiwan has been particularly grateful for U.S. support to permit its attendance at the World Health Organization's decision-making body the World Health Assembly (WHA), and to allow it greater access to the organisation. Taiwan is not a member of the WHO due to China's objections. China considers Taiwan a Chinese province. "I'd like to reiterate that political considerations should never take precedence over the rights to health. The decision to bar Taiwan from participating in the WHA is a violation of the universal rights to health," Tsai said. Azar later told reporters that at Trump's direction, he and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had sought to restore Taiwan's status as an observer at the WHA. "But the Chinese Communist Party and the World Health Organization have prevented that. This has been one of the major frustrations that the Trump administration has had with the World Health Organization and its inability to reform."

Chinese jets spotted in Taiwan Strait during US health chief visit

A US warship has sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China.

Taiwan's armed forces monitored the ship which it described as being on an "ordinary mission".

China, which considers Taiwan its own, has been angered by the US administration's stepped-up support for the island. The increased support includes more arms sales, US patrols near it and a visit to Washington by Vice President-elect William Lai in February.

Lt. Anthony Junco, a US Seventh Fleet spokesman, however said the ship had conducted a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" in accordance with international law. He named the ship involved as the guided-missile destroyer as USS Barry.

The USS Barry had sailed through the strait two weeks ago too -- on the same day that Chinese fighter jets drilled in waters close to the democratically-ruled island. 
&nbsp;

A US warship has sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China. Taiwan's armed forces monitored the ship which it described as being on an "ordinary mission".

A US warship has sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China. Taiwan's armed forces monitored the ship which it described as being on an "ordinary mission". China, which considers Taiwan its own, has been angered by the US administration's stepped-up support for the island. The increased support includes more arms sales, US patrols near it and a visit to Washington by Vice President-elect William Lai in February. Lt. Anthony Junco, a US Seventh Fleet spokesman, however said the ship had conducted a "routine Taiwan Strait transit" in accordance with international law. He named the ship involved as the guided-missile destroyer as USS Barry. The USS Barry had sailed through the strait two weeks ago too -- on the same day that Chinese fighter jets drilled in waters close to the democratically-ruled island.

US warship sails through sensitive Taiwan Strait for the second time in a month

A newly commissioned Chinese aircraft carrier sailed through the Taiwan Strait for a second time Thursday, Taipei's defence ministry said, just weeks before the island goes to polls to elect a new president.&nbsp;

The ministry said it was fully monitoring the Shandong, China's first domestically built carrier, and accompanying ships as they traversed the strait separating China from self-ruled Taiwan.&nbsp;

Taiwan's presidential office said in a statement that China had an "international responsibility" to contribute to cross-strait and regional peace and welfare.

Last month Beijing confirmed it had sent the new carrier through the strait as part of routine training, sparking concerns from Washington's de facto embassy in Taiwan.&nbsp;

At the time, foreign minister Joseph Wu accused China of attempting to intervene in Taiwan's elections, saying "voters won't be intimidated".

The sail-bys come ahead of Taiwan's January 11 presidential elections, with Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen seeking a second term against a challenger who favours warmer ties with China.&nbsp;

Beijing has stepped up military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since Tsai came to power in 2016, as her government refuses to acknowledge that the democratic island is part of "one China".&nbsp;

Tsai -- who has voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement -- has described the elections as a fight for Taiwan's freedom and democracy.&nbsp;

China still sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

Beijing announced earlier this month that the Shandong had officially entered service.

Its only other carrier -- the Liaoning -- has passed through the Taiwan Strait several times in recent years, most recently in June.&nbsp;

US navy ships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" operations in the Taiwan Strait, while Canadian and French ships have also sailed through the waterway this year.&nbsp;

China views any ships passing through the strait as a breach of its territorial sovereignty -- while the US and many other nations see the route as international space.

aw/fox

A newly commissioned Chinese aircraft carrier sailed through the Taiwan Strait for a second time Thursday, Taipei's defence ministry said, just weeks before the island goes to polls to elect a new president.

A newly commissioned Chinese aircraft carrier sailed through the Taiwan Strait for a second time Thursday, Taipei's defence ministry said, just weeks before the island goes to polls to elect a new president. The ministry said it was fully monitoring the Shandong, China's first domestically built carrier, and accompanying ships as they traversed the strait separating China from self-ruled Taiwan. Taiwan's presidential office said in a statement that China had an "international responsibility" to contribute to cross-strait and regional peace and welfare. Last month Beijing confirmed it had sent the new carrier through the strait as part of routine training, sparking concerns from Washington's de facto embassy in Taiwan. At the time, foreign minister Joseph Wu accused China of attempting to intervene in Taiwan's elections, saying "voters won't be intimidated". The sail-bys come ahead of Taiwan's January 11 presidential elections, with Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen seeking a second term against a challenger who favours warmer ties with China. Beijing has stepped up military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan since Tsai came to power in 2016, as her government refuses to acknowledge that the democratic island is part of "one China". Tsai -- who has voiced support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement -- has described the elections as a fight for Taiwan's freedom and democracy. China still sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary. Beijing announced earlier this month that the Shandong had officially entered service. Its only other carrier -- the Liaoning -- has passed through the Taiwan Strait several times in recent years, most recently in June. US navy ships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" operations in the Taiwan Strait, while Canadian and French ships have also sailed through the waterway this year. China views any ships passing through the strait as a breach of its territorial sovereignty -- while the US and many other nations see the route as international space. aw/fox

China aircraft carrier sails through Taiwan Strait again

China is stepping up efforts to be nice to Taiwan ahead of key elections on January 11, offering better treatment to Taiwanese in China and urging the democratic island to "come home", but many there only see Beijing wielding a threatening stick.

China is stepping up efforts to be nice to Taiwan ahead of key elections on January 11, offering better treatment to Taiwanese in China and urging the democratic island to "come home", but many there only see Beijing wielding a threatening stick. China denies interfering in elections in Taiwan, which Beijing claims as sacred territory, but it traditionally tries various means to influence their result, hoping politicians with a more positive view on China ties get into office. These can range from military intimidation - China fired missiles into the Taiwan Strait before the 1996 election - to what Taiwan's government calls Beijing's manipulation of China-friendly Taiwanese media. China also wants to ensure that Taiwan's huge business community in China is happy, hoping they will go home to vote for China-friendly politicians. This month, China unveiled 26 measures to further open its economy to investors from Taiwan, and said Taiwanese abroad could turn to Chinese embassies for consular help. Dovetailing with those steps has been an unusual Chinese effort at soft power to speak directly to people in Taiwan, a gentler approach after some hostile moves this year, such as a threat of force by President Xi Jinping in January. Commenting on the 26 measures, Hai Xia, one of the highest-profile news presenters on Chinese state television, appealed for Taiwan to return "home". "Taiwan's fate is connected with the motherland. Wan Wan, come home," she said on air, employing a diminutive to refer to Taiwan and project a friendly message. China has not only been using Mandarin, the official tongue on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, but has also deployed Hokkien and Hakka, two languages spoken on the island but whose formal use is not encouraged in China. On Wednesday, it introduced Zhu Fenglian, a new spokeswoman for its policy-making Taiwan Affairs Office, who voiced warm greetings in both languages at her first news conference. "I am a Hakka from Guangdong, I'd like first here to say hello to folks in Taiwan," she said, referring to the southern Chinese province while speaking in Hokkien, generally known in Taiwan as Taiwanese. Many politicians in Taiwan, a rambunctious democracy, have responded vigorously to China's gestures. Beijing should focus on "giving its own people a bit more freedom", Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Twitter in response to China's 26 measures, writing in the simplified Chinese characters used in China and not Taiwan. The Chinese state television comment on "coming home" also triggered a backlash. "Thank you for your concern; the people of Taiwan are already in their own home," independent legislator Hung Tzu-yung wrote on her Facebook page. China was the "enemy of democracy", Cho Jung-tai, chairman of the ruling pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which has repeatedly warned of the threat China poses, said this week. Even Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang, which favours closer ties, has been cautious of being too closely associated with Beijing in an election year. Commenting on the new measures for Taiwanese in China, the Kuomintang welcomed their beneficial content. "But if any of these actions belittle the sovereignty of the Republic of China, it must be firmly opposed," it warned, using Taiwan's official name. "The Kuomintang hopes both sides of the Taiwan Strait will give priority to each other's livelihoods and not hurt the rights and interests of the people on both sides for momentary election considerations."

China holds out carrot ahead of Taiwan election, but few convinced

The US military said on Wednesday it sent a Navy warship through the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from China, a move likely to anger China during a period of tense relations between Washington and Beijing.

Taiwan is among a growing number of flashpoints in the US-China relationship, which include a trade war, US sanctions and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea, where the United States also conducts freedom-of-navigation patrols.

China on Wednesday warned that it is ready for war if there was any move towards Taiwan's independence, accusing the United States of undermining global stability and denouncing its arms sales to the self-ruled island.

The warship sent to the 112-mile-wide (180-km) Taiwan Strait was identified as the Antietam.

"The (ship's) transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the US Navy's Seventh Fleet, said in a statement. "The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows," he added.

The voyage risks further raising tensions with China but will likely be viewed by self-ruled Taiwan as a sign of support from US President Donald Trump's administration amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing.

The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide the island with the means to defend itself and is its main source of arms.

China has been ramping up pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, which it considers a wayward province of "one China" and sacred Chinese territory.

On Wednesday, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian told a news briefing on a defence white paper, the first like it in several years to outline the military’s strategic concerns, that China would make its greatest effort for peaceful reunification with Taiwan.

"If there are people who dare to try to split Taiwan from the country, China’s military will be ready to go to war to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity," he said.

China has repeatedly sent military aircraft and ships to circle Taiwan on exercises in the past few years and worked to isolate it internationally, whittling down its few remaining diplomatic allies.

The US military said on Wednesday it sent a Navy warship through the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from China, a move likely to anger China during a period of tense relations between Washington and Beijing.

The US military said on Wednesday it sent a Navy warship through the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from China, a move likely to anger China during a period of tense relations between Washington and Beijing. Taiwan is among a growing number of flashpoints in the US-China relationship, which include a trade war, US sanctions and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea, where the United States also conducts freedom-of-navigation patrols. China on Wednesday warned that it is ready for war if there was any move towards Taiwan's independence, accusing the United States of undermining global stability and denouncing its arms sales to the self-ruled island. The warship sent to the 112-mile-wide (180-km) Taiwan Strait was identified as the Antietam. "The (ship's) transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the US Navy's Seventh Fleet, said in a statement. "The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows," he added. The voyage risks further raising tensions with China but will likely be viewed by self-ruled Taiwan as a sign of support from US President Donald Trump's administration amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide the island with the means to defend itself and is its main source of arms. China has been ramping up pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, which it considers a wayward province of "one China" and sacred Chinese territory. On Wednesday, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian told a news briefing on a defence white paper, the first like it in several years to outline the military’s strategic concerns, that China would make its greatest effort for peaceful reunification with Taiwan. "If there are people who dare to try to split Taiwan from the country, China’s military will be ready to go to war to firmly safeguard national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity," he said. China has repeatedly sent military aircraft and ships to circle Taiwan on exercises in the past few years and worked to isolate it internationally, whittling down its few remaining diplomatic allies.

US warship sails through strategic Taiwan Strait

China is flexing its muscles in South East Asia. Tensions are high in Taiwan after China mobilized some of its elite military forces. China is conducting exercises off the coast of Taiwan, according to a statement from the People's Liberation Army, soldiers from the navy and the airforce are involved. Watch this video to know more.

China holds drills in Taiwan Strait

China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-go-too-far-in-damaging-moves-china-tells-us-219797">rising tensions between the two powers</a>.

The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S. Diehl, a supply ship, conducted a routine transit "in accordance with international law" on Wednesday.

"The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the navy said.

"The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows."

US warships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" exercises in the narrow waterway separating the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, triggering angry responses from Beijing every time.

Beijing views any ships passing through the strait as essentially breaching its sovereignty, while the US and many other nations view the route as international waters open to all.

"We have lodged solemn representations with the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing.

The sail-by comes on top of tensions between the United States and China over trade and US efforts to thwart Chinese telecom giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-unwanted-asian-shops-shun-phone-trade-ins-on-google-suspension-worries-220614">Huawei </a>over security concerns.

The transit also comes as the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-south-korea-start-first-of-its-kind-naval-drill-220878"> US, Japan, South Korea</a> and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries.

Drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," the US 7th Fleet said.

In April, Beijing said its navy warned off a French warship that had entered the Taiwan Strait and lodged an official complaint with Paris.

China sees Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949.

The US diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan, but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier.

For the Guam naval drills, Australia has contributed two frigates, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the 7th Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side.

Home to more than 160,000 people, Guam was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with North Korea threatening to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions between the two powers. The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S.

China said Thursday it had lodged a protest with Washington after two US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions between the two powers. The US Navy said the USS Preble, a destroyer, and USNS Walter S. Diehl, a supply ship, conducted a routine transit "in accordance with international law" on Wednesday. "The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the navy said. "The US Navy will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows." US warships periodically conduct "freedom of navigation" exercises in the narrow waterway separating the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, triggering angry responses from Beijing every time. Beijing views any ships passing through the strait as essentially breaching its sovereignty, while the US and many other nations view the route as international waters open to all. "We have lodged solemn representations with the US," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing. The sail-by comes on top of tensions between the United States and China over trade and US efforts to thwart Chinese telecom giant Huawei over security concerns. The transit also comes as the US, Japan, South Korea and Australia kicked off operation "Pacific Vanguard" near Guam, bringing together more than 3,000 sailors from the four countries. Drills will focus on "live fire exercises, defensive counter-air operations, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea," the US 7th Fleet said. In April, Beijing said its navy warned off a French warship that had entered the Taiwan Strait and lodged an official complaint with Paris. China sees Taiwan as part of its territory to be reunified, despite the two sides being ruled separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949. The US diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan, but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier. For the Guam naval drills, Australia has contributed two frigates, Japan two destroyers and South Korea one destroyer. The USS Blue Ridge, the 7th Fleet's flagship, will lead the operation from the US side. Home to more than 160,000 people, Guam was at the centre of nuclear tensions between Washington and Pyongyang in 2017, with North Korea threatening to hit the US territory with "enveloping fire".

China rebukes US over warship sail-by in Taiwan Strait

The US military said it sent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-protests-as-french-warship-passes-through-taiwan-strait-213434">two Navy warships through</a> the Taiwan Strait on Sunday as the Pentagon increases the frequency of movement through the strategic waterway despite opposition from China.

The voyage risks further raising tensions with China but will likely be viewed by<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-urge-us-to-respect-one-china-principle-and-avoid-damaging-peace-in-taiwan-straits-china-180222"> self-ruled Taiwan</a> as a sign of support from the Trump administration amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing.

Taiwan is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the US-China relationship, which also include a trade war, US sanctions and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea, where the United States also conducts freedom-of-navigation patrols.

The two destroyers were identified as the William P. Lawrence and Stethem. The 112-mile-wide (180-km) Taiwan Strait separates Taiwan from China.

"The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the US Navy's Seventh Fleet, said in a statement.

Doss said there were no unsafe or unprofessional interactions with other countries' vessels during the transit.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said the US ships had sailed north through the strait.

"US ships freely passing through the Taiwan Strait is part of the mission of carrying out the Indo-Pacific strategy," it said in a statement.

Taiwan's armed forces monitored the transit and nothing out of the ordinary happened during it, the ministry said.

There was no immediate comment from China.

The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide the island with the means to defend itself and is its main source of arms.

The Pentagon says Washington has sold Taipei more than $15 billion in weaponry since 2010.

China has been ramping up pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, which it considers a wayward province of "one-China" and sacred Chinese territory.

It said a recent Taiwan Strait passage by a French warship was "illegal."

Beijing's concerns about Taiwan are likely to factor strongly into this year's Chinese defense budget, following a stern New Year's speech from President Xi Jinping, threatening to attack Taiwan should it not accept Chinese rule.

China has repeatedly sent military aircraft and ships to circle the island on drills in the past few years and worked to isolate it internationally, whittling down its few remaining diplomatic allies.

The US military said it sent two Navy warships through the Taiwan Strait on Sunday as the Pentagon increases the frequency of movement through the strategic waterway despite opposition from China.

The US military said it sent two Navy warships through the Taiwan Strait on Sunday as the Pentagon increases the frequency of movement through the strategic waterway despite opposition from China. The voyage risks further raising tensions with China but will likely be viewed by self-ruled Taiwan as a sign of support from the Trump administration amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing. Taiwan is one of a growing number of flashpoints in the US-China relationship, which also include a trade war, US sanctions and China's increasingly muscular military posture in the South China Sea, where the United States also conducts freedom-of-navigation patrols. The two destroyers were identified as the William P. Lawrence and Stethem. The 112-mile-wide (180-km) Taiwan Strait separates Taiwan from China. "The ships' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Commander Clay Doss, a spokesman for the US Navy's Seventh Fleet, said in a statement. Doss said there were no unsafe or unprofessional interactions with other countries' vessels during the transit. Taiwan's Defense Ministry said the US ships had sailed north through the strait. "US ships freely passing through the Taiwan Strait is part of the mission of carrying out the Indo-Pacific strategy," it said in a statement. Taiwan's armed forces monitored the transit and nothing out of the ordinary happened during it, the ministry said. There was no immediate comment from China. The United States has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help provide the island with the means to defend itself and is its main source of arms. The Pentagon says Washington has sold Taipei more than $15 billion in weaponry since 2010. China has been ramping up pressure to assert its sovereignty over the island, which it considers a wayward province of "one-China" and sacred Chinese territory. It said a recent Taiwan Strait passage by a French warship was "illegal." Beijing's concerns about Taiwan are likely to factor strongly into this year's Chinese defense budget, following a stern New Year's speech from President Xi Jinping, threatening to attack Taiwan should it not accept Chinese rule. China has repeatedly sent military aircraft and ships to circle the island on drills in the past few years and worked to isolate it internationally, whittling down its few remaining diplomatic allies.

After French warship, two US warships sail through Taiwan Strait amid tensions with China

Indian, Australian warships arrive in China for naval parade

Taipei hit out at China on Sunday for what it said was a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/chinas-taiwan-conundrum-new-year-old-challenges-189496">reckless and provocative</a>" incursion by two fighter jets across a largely respected line dividing the two sides in the Taiwan Strait.

The Defence Ministry said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-taiwan-china-relations-since-1949-188037">Taiwan</a> scrambled its own aircraft on Sunday morning and broadcast warnings after two J-11 fighter jets crossed over the "median line" within the waters that separate the island from the mainland.

"At 11 am, March 31, 2 PLAAF J-11 jets violated the long-held tacit agreement by crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Twitter.

"It was an intentional, reckless and provocative action. We've informed regional partners and condemn China for such behavior," the ministry added.

China has ramped up the number of fighter and warship crossings near Taiwan or through the straits in recent years, rattling nerves on the island at a time when relations are at a low point.

But it is highly unusual for them to cross the so-called median line, a widely agreed upon boundary that passes through the middle of the straits.

Taiwanese media said the last time Chinese jets had crossed the line was in 2011.&nbsp;

That incident was portrayed by both sides as an inadvertent mistake by two jets responding to a nearby US spy plane.

But on Sunday Taipei described the latest incursion as a deliberate act.&nbsp;

Presidential Office spokesman Alex Huang called the flights "provocative and damaging the cross-straits status quo".

The flights come a week after the US sailed a destroyer and a coastguard ship through the Taiwan Strait, angering Beijing.

Although the straits are an international waterway China often hits out when US or other western navy ships pass through them.

Beijing sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting unification, even though the two sides have been ruled separately since the end of a civil war in 1949.

Washington diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier.

Earlier this month Taiwan said it had made a formal request to the US for new fighter jets.

Since 2002, the US has repeatedly denied such requests, fearing a possible backlash from Beijing.

But in that time China has massively increased spending on its armed forces, including highly advanced fifth-generation jet fighters.

That has left Taiwan with an ageing airforce that analysts say is outgunned and in desperate need of an upgrade.

China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan since the Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016, including staging a series of military exercises near the island.

She will be fighting for reelection in January 2020.&nbsp;

Last week Tsai made a brief stop in Hawaii to deliver a speech, prompting China to lodge an official protest with Washington.&nbsp;

Taipei hit out at China on Sunday for what it said was a "reckless and provocative" incursion by two fighter jets across a largely respected line dividing the two sides in the Taiwan Strait.

Taipei hit out at China on Sunday for what it said was a "reckless and provocative" incursion by two fighter jets across a largely respected line dividing the two sides in the Taiwan Strait. The Defence Ministry said Taiwan scrambled its own aircraft on Sunday morning and broadcast warnings after two J-11 fighter jets crossed over the "median line" within the waters that separate the island from the mainland. "At 11 am, March 31, 2 PLAAF J-11 jets violated the long-held tacit agreement by crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Twitter. "It was an intentional, reckless and provocative action. We've informed regional partners and condemn China for such behavior," the ministry added. China has ramped up the number of fighter and warship crossings near Taiwan or through the straits in recent years, rattling nerves on the island at a time when relations are at a low point. But it is highly unusual for them to cross the so-called median line, a widely agreed upon boundary that passes through the middle of the straits. Taiwanese media said the last time Chinese jets had crossed the line was in 2011. That incident was portrayed by both sides as an inadvertent mistake by two jets responding to a nearby US spy plane. But on Sunday Taipei described the latest incursion as a deliberate act. Presidential Office spokesman Alex Huang called the flights "provocative and damaging the cross-straits status quo". The flights come a week after the US sailed a destroyer and a coastguard ship through the Taiwan Strait, angering Beijing. Although the straits are an international waterway China often hits out when US or other western navy ships pass through them. Beijing sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting unification, even though the two sides have been ruled separately since the end of a civil war in 1949. Washington diplomatically recognises China over Taiwan but remains the island's chief military ally and arms supplier. Earlier this month Taiwan said it had made a formal request to the US for new fighter jets. Since 2002, the US has repeatedly denied such requests, fearing a possible backlash from Beijing. But in that time China has massively increased spending on its armed forces, including highly advanced fifth-generation jet fighters. That has left Taiwan with an ageing airforce that analysts say is outgunned and in desperate need of an upgrade. China has significantly stepped up diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan since the Beijing-sceptic President Tsai Ing-wen took office in 2016, including staging a series of military exercises near the island. She will be fighting for reelection in January 2020. Last week Tsai made a brief stop in Hawaii to deliver a speech, prompting China to lodge an official protest with Washington.

Taiwan blasts China for 'reckless' fighter jet incursion

The United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday in the first such operation this year, the Taiwanese government said, as it increases the frequency of transits through the strategic waterway amid tensions with China.

The voyage risks further heightening tensions with China, which considers Taiwan its own and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the self-ruled island under its control.

Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement late on Thursday the ships were moving in a northerly direction and that their voyage was in accordance with regulations.

It said Taiwan closely monitored the operation to "ensure the security of the seas and regional stability".

The move will likely be viewed in Taiwan as a sign of support from US President Donald Trump's government amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing.

China has stepped up pressure on Taiwan since President Tsai Ing-wen, from the pro-independence ruling party, took office in 2016. It has regularly sent military aircraft and ships to circle the island on drills in the past few years.

Beijing sent several bombers and aircraft through the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, earlier on Thursday, Taiwan's defence ministry said in a separate statement.

A similar Chinese operation was conducted on Tuesday, the ministry said, and both were monitored closely.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said in early January China reserves the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control. In response, Tsai vowed to defend the island's democracy and called for international support to protect Taiwan's way of life.

Trump recently signed into law the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act reaffirming the US commitment to Taiwan, including arms sales.

Washington has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help it defend itself and is its main source of arms.

The United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday in the first such operation this year, the Taiwanese government said, as it increases the frequency of transits through the strategic waterway amid tensions with China.

The United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday in the first such operation this year, the Taiwanese government said, as it increases the frequency of transits through the strategic waterway amid tensions with China. The voyage risks further heightening tensions with China, which considers Taiwan its own and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the self-ruled island under its control. Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement late on Thursday the ships were moving in a northerly direction and that their voyage was in accordance with regulations. It said Taiwan closely monitored the operation to "ensure the security of the seas and regional stability". The move will likely be viewed in Taiwan as a sign of support from US President Donald Trump's government amid growing friction between Taipei and Beijing. China has stepped up pressure on Taiwan since President Tsai Ing-wen, from the pro-independence ruling party, took office in 2016. It has regularly sent military aircraft and ships to circle the island on drills in the past few years. Beijing sent several bombers and aircraft through the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines, earlier on Thursday, Taiwan's defence ministry said in a separate statement. A similar Chinese operation was conducted on Tuesday, the ministry said, and both were monitored closely. Chinese President Xi Jinping said in early January China reserves the right to use force to bring Taiwan under its control. In response, Tsai vowed to defend the island's democracy and called for international support to protect Taiwan's way of life. Trump recently signed into law the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act reaffirming the US commitment to Taiwan, including arms sales. Washington has no formal ties with Taiwan but is bound by law to help it defend itself and is its main source of arms.

US warships pass through Taiwan Strait amid China tensions

China's first domestically manufactured aircraft carrier started sea trials&nbsp;Sunday, state media said, a landmark in Beijing's ambitious plans to modernise its navy as the Asian giant presses its claims in disputed regional waters.

The carrier, known only as "Type 001A", set out for the trials from a port in northeastern China at around&nbsp;6.45 am&nbsp;(2245 GMT&nbsp;Saturday), according to state broadcaster CCTV.

Expected to be commissioned by 2020, the ship will give China a second aircraft carrier as it asserts its claims in the South China Sea and seeks to deter any independence movements in Taiwan.

Footage aired by CCTV showed the imposing carrier accompanied by several smaller military craft leaving a wharf and heading out to sea.

It is the first time the ship's engine, propulsion and navigation systems will be tested at sea, state media said, a year after it first took to the water at its official launch.

China's sole operational aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, is a repurposed Soviet ship bought from Ukraine, which went into service in 2012.&nbsp;

Neither the Liaoning or the new ship are nuclear powered, but both can carry around 40 planes and have similar "ski jump" ramps, an old launch system that forces aircraft to carry fewer weapons in order to hold more fuel for take-off.

The possession of a homegrown aircraft carrier -- which the defence ministry has said displaces 55,000 tonnes -- places China among the few military powers with such vessels, including the United States, Russia and Britain.

But it would still be no match in size or range to the nuclear-powered vessels of the United States Navy, which has 11 carriers.

China's warships will enable it to "project its power and influence in its neighbourhood", Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), told AFP.

Chinese state media have been speculating that a third aircraft carrier is in the works, but the defence ministry has yet to confirm this.

However, even with the potential development of further carriers, it could still be years before China's navy is able to deploy its fleet effectively, said Tsang.

"With the Chinese carriers substantially inferior in capacity to the US super-carriers, the balance of forces between the two navies will only change marginally rather than substantially," he said.

Beijing has embarked on an extensive project to build a "blue water" navy and modernise its two million-strong military, the world's largest.

China's defence budget rose 8.1 percent to 1.1 trillion yuan ($175 billion) in 2018, but it is still only about a quarter that of the United States.

The Liaoning has conducted a series of manoeuvres with dozens of other ships, submarines and aircraft in the South China Sea in recent weeks.

In March it sailed through the Taiwan Strait, prompting Taipei to dispatch ships and planes to track the vessel, on the same day Chinese President Xi Jinping warned against what he called any attempts to split China.

Beijing sees democratically governed Taiwan as a renegade part of its territory to be brought back into the fold and has not ruled out reunification by force.

China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan have claimed to the South China Sea, while Beijing also has territorial disputes with Japan in the East China Sea.

The US, meanwhile, regularly conducts "freedom of navigation" naval operations near artificial islands in the South China Sea to challenges Beijing's claims.

The carrier, known only as 'Type 001A', set out for the trials from a port in northeastern China at around 6.45 am, according to state broadcaster CCTV

China's first domestically manufactured aircraft carrier started sea trials Sunday, state media said, a landmark in Beijing's ambitious plans to modernise its navy as the Asian giant presses its claims in disputed regional waters. The carrier, known only as "Type 001A", set out for the trials from a port in northeastern China at around 6.45 am (2245 GMT Saturday), according to state broadcaster CCTV. Expected to be commissioned by 2020, the ship will give China a second aircraft carrier as it asserts its claims in the South China Sea and seeks to deter any independence movements in Taiwan. Footage aired by CCTV showed the imposing carrier accompanied by several smaller military craft leaving a wharf and heading out to sea. It is the first time the ship's engine, propulsion and navigation systems will be tested at sea, state media said, a year after it first took to the water at its official launch. China's sole operational aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, is a repurposed Soviet ship bought from Ukraine, which went into service in 2012. Neither the Liaoning or the new ship are nuclear powered, but both can carry around 40 planes and have similar "ski jump" ramps, an old launch system that forces aircraft to carry fewer weapons in order to hold more fuel for take-off. The possession of a homegrown aircraft carrier -- which the defence ministry has said displaces 55,000 tonnes -- places China among the few military powers with such vessels, including the United States, Russia and Britain. But it would still be no match in size or range to the nuclear-powered vessels of the United States Navy, which has 11 carriers. China's warships will enable it to "project its power and influence in its neighbourhood", Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), told AFP. Chinese state media have been speculating that a third aircraft carrier is in the works, but the defence ministry has yet to confirm this. However, even with the potential development of further carriers, it could still be years before China's navy is able to deploy its fleet effectively, said Tsang. "With the Chinese carriers substantially inferior in capacity to the US super-carriers, the balance of forces between the two navies will only change marginally rather than substantially," he said. Beijing has embarked on an extensive project to build a "blue water" navy and modernise its two million-strong military, the world's largest. China's defence budget rose 8.1 percent to 1.1 trillion yuan ($175 billion) in 2018, but it is still only about a quarter that of the United States. The Liaoning has conducted a series of manoeuvres with dozens of other ships, submarines and aircraft in the South China Sea in recent weeks. In March it sailed through the Taiwan Strait, prompting Taipei to dispatch ships and planes to track the vessel, on the same day Chinese President Xi Jinping warned against what he called any attempts to split China. Beijing sees democratically governed Taiwan as a renegade part of its territory to be brought back into the fold and has not ruled out reunification by force. China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan have claimed to the South China Sea, while Beijing also has territorial disputes with Japan in the East China Sea. The US, meanwhile, regularly conducts "freedom of navigation" naval operations near artificial islands in the South China Sea to challenges Beijing's claims.

First China-made aircraft carrier starts sea trials: State media

China's military has conducted live-fire drills along the southeast coastline, state television reported, but it was unclear if these were the same exercises that had been flagged as taking place in the sensitive Taiwan Strait.

The government had said the drills would happen on Wednesday off the city of Quanzhou, in between two groups of islands close to China's coast but that Taiwan has controlled since 1949 when defeated Nationalist forces fled to the island at the end of the Chinese civil war.

Chinese state media has said the drills were a direct response to "provocations" by Taiwan leaders related to what China fears are moves to push for the self-ruled island's formal independence. China claims Taiwan as its sacred territory.

Late on Wednesday, Chinese state television showed footage of helicopters firing missiles during an exercise it said was happening on China's southeast coast.

State television only showed pictures of helicopters, with no mention of ships or other military equipment such as tanks or amphibious assault vehicles.

The exercises took place from 8 am&nbsp(0000GMT) until midnight, the report said, giving the same time frame for the previously announced drills in the Taiwan Strait.

The Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the exercise, and whether it was the same ones previously reported to be happening in the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan on Wednesday denounced the exercises, saying Beijing was using "cheap verbal intimidation and sabre rattling" to threaten the island.

Taiwan is one of China's most sensitive issues and a potential military flashpoint. China has ramped up military exercises around Taiwan in the past year, including flying bombers around the island.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday afternoon two Chinese H-6K bombers had flown around the island, passing first through the Miyako Strait to Taiwan's northeast and then back to base via the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.

The latest Chinese military movements come during a time of heightened tension between Beijing and the island and follows strong warnings by Chinese President Xi Jinping against Taiwan separatism last month.

China claims Taiwan as its own and considers it a breakaway province.

China's hostility towards Taiwan has grown since Tsai Ing-wen from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party won a presidential election on the island in 2016.

China fears she wants to push for the island's formal independence. Tsai says she is committed to peace and maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, but will defend Taiwan's security.

Setting aside the tension with China, Tsai began a visit to the southern African nation of Swaziland on Wednesday, one of only 20 countries which maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

The exercises took place from 8 am (0000GMT) until midnight, state media said, giving the same time frame for previously announced drills in the Taiwan Strait

China's military has conducted live-fire drills along the southeast coastline, state television reported, but it was unclear if these were the same exercises that had been flagged as taking place in the sensitive Taiwan Strait. The government had said the drills would happen on Wednesday off the city of Quanzhou, in between two groups of islands close to China's coast but that Taiwan has controlled since 1949 when defeated Nationalist forces fled to the island at the end of the Chinese civil war. Chinese state media has said the drills were a direct response to "provocations" by Taiwan leaders related to what China fears are moves to push for the self-ruled island's formal independence. China claims Taiwan as its sacred territory. Late on Wednesday, Chinese state television showed footage of helicopters firing missiles during an exercise it said was happening on China's southeast coast. State television only showed pictures of helicopters, with no mention of ships or other military equipment such as tanks or amphibious assault vehicles. The exercises took place from 8 am (0000GMT) until midnight, the report said, giving the same time frame for the previously announced drills in the Taiwan Strait. The Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the exercise, and whether it was the same ones previously reported to be happening in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan on Wednesday denounced the exercises, saying Beijing was using "cheap verbal intimidation and sabre rattling" to threaten the island. Taiwan is one of China's most sensitive issues and a potential military flashpoint. China has ramped up military exercises around Taiwan in the past year, including flying bombers around the island. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday afternoon two Chinese H-6K bombers had flown around the island, passing first through the Miyako Strait to Taiwan's northeast and then back to base via the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines. The latest Chinese military movements come during a time of heightened tension between Beijing and the island and follows strong warnings by Chinese President Xi Jinping against Taiwan separatism last month. China claims Taiwan as its own and considers it a breakaway province. China's hostility towards Taiwan has grown since Tsai Ing-wen from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party won a presidential election on the island in 2016. China fears she wants to push for the island's formal independence. Tsai says she is committed to peace and maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, but will defend Taiwan's security. Setting aside the tension with China, Tsai began a visit to the southern African nation of Swaziland on Wednesday, one of only 20 countries which maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

China carries out live-fire drills, unclear if aimed at Taiwan

China rebuffed Taiwan&rsquo;s objections in a deepening row over the opening of new flight paths in the Taiwan Strait, saying on Wednesday that the space separating routes over the waterway was more than is mandated by international standards.

This month China opened several new air routes, including a northbound route up the sensitive Taiwan Strait that divides China from the island. Taiwan says it was done without its agreement, contravening what the democratic government in Taipei has said was a 2015 deal to first discuss such flight paths.

In response, self-governed Taiwan has withheld approval of routine applications from China Eastern and Xiamen Airlines, majority owned by China Southern Airlines, to add Lunar New Year flights because the airlines had used the disputed air routes.

Taiwan has expressed concern the new routes are too close to existing routes that link it to airports on two groups of Taiwan-controlled islands lying close to China - Kinmen which sits opposite to the Chinese city of Xiamen and the Matsu archipelago near to Fuzhou.

Multiple daily flights connect the islands to mainland Taiwan, while Xiamen and Fuzhou are also busy airports.

Speaking at a regular news briefing, Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for China&rsquo;s Taiwan Affairs Office, said there was at least 23 km (14 miles) separating the routes.

&ldquo;This type of separation far exceeds lateral separation standards in the rules of the International Civil Aviation Organization,&rdquo; Ma said. &ldquo;So it can be said that the connecting routes are safe.&rdquo;

Kinmen and Matsu have both been under Taiwan&rsquo;s control since defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan at the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949.

Frequently shelled by the Chinese during the height of the Cold War, both are now popular tourist destinations and connected to China by ferry.

Kinmen&rsquo;s airport is the busiest, with regular though less frequent flights to Matsu&rsquo;s two airports from Taiwan.

Despite the spat, air traffic controllers from both China and Taiwan continue to communicate and coordinate as normal, Wang Zhiqing, a deputy head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China told a separate briefing.

&ldquo;Yesterday I met a relevant official from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and he said the M503 route has been assessed and approved of by them, it&rsquo;s safe and reliable,&rdquo; Wang said, referring to the main disputed route.

The ICAO did not immediately respond to Reuters&rsquo; request for comment

A spokesman for airline lobby International Air Transport Association (IATA) said in an email to Reuters that it welcomed initiatives to improve the safety and efficiency of flight operations, including M503 and the new routes.

It added that the safety of aircraft using M503 was of &ldquo;utmost importance,&rdquo; saying that operational coordination between the flight operation regions needed to be addressed and resolved.

&ldquo;The routes could enlarge the airspace capacity in the region, alleviate the air traffic congestion, improve the punctuality for the surrounding airports and serve as a bypass when surrounding air routes are closed for various reasons.&rdquo;

China considers Taiwan a wayward province, and relations have cooled dramatically since Tsai Ing-wen of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party took office as Taiwan&rsquo;s president in 2016.

China rebuffed Taiwan’s objections in a deepening row over the opening of new flight paths in the Taiwan Strait, saying on Wednesday that the space separating routes over the waterway was more than is mandated by international standards

China rebuffed Taiwan’s objections in a deepening row over the opening of new flight paths in the Taiwan Strait, saying on Wednesday that the space separating routes over the waterway was more than is mandated by international standards. This month China opened several new air routes, including a northbound route up the sensitive Taiwan Strait that divides China from the island. Taiwan says it was done without its agreement, contravening what the democratic government in Taipei has said was a 2015 deal to first discuss such flight paths. In response, self-governed Taiwan has withheld approval of routine applications from China Eastern and Xiamen Airlines, majority owned by China Southern Airlines, to add Lunar New Year flights because the airlines had used the disputed air routes. Taiwan has expressed concern the new routes are too close to existing routes that link it to airports on two groups of Taiwan-controlled islands lying close to China - Kinmen which sits opposite to the Chinese city of Xiamen and the Matsu archipelago near to Fuzhou. Multiple daily flights connect the islands to mainland Taiwan, while Xiamen and Fuzhou are also busy airports. Speaking at a regular news briefing, Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, said there was at least 23 km (14 miles) separating the routes. “This type of separation far exceeds lateral separation standards in the rules of the International Civil Aviation Organization,” Ma said. “So it can be said that the connecting routes are safe.” Kinmen and Matsu have both been under Taiwan’s control since defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan at the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949. Frequently shelled by the Chinese during the height of the Cold War, both are now popular tourist destinations and connected to China by ferry. Kinmen’s airport is the busiest, with regular though less frequent flights to Matsu’s two airports from Taiwan. Despite the spat, air traffic controllers from both China and Taiwan continue to communicate and coordinate as normal, Wang Zhiqing, a deputy head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China told a separate briefing. “Yesterday I met a relevant official from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and he said the M503 route has been assessed and approved of by them, it’s safe and reliable,” Wang said, referring to the main disputed route. The ICAO did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment A spokesman for airline lobby International Air Transport Association (IATA) said in an email to Reuters that it welcomed initiatives to improve the safety and efficiency of flight operations, including M503 and the new routes. It added that the safety of aircraft using M503 was of “utmost importance,” saying that operational coordination between the flight operation regions needed to be addressed and resolved. “The routes could enlarge the airspace capacity in the region, alleviate the air traffic congestion, improve the punctuality for the surrounding airports and serve as a bypass when surrounding air routes are closed for various reasons.” China considers Taiwan a wayward province, and relations have cooled dramatically since Tsai Ing-wen of the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party took office as Taiwan’s president in 2016.

China says plenty of space separates Taiwan flights amid route row

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