China threatens death penalty for 'diehard' Taiwan separatists

China on Friday threatened to imposedeath penalty in extreme cases for "diehard"Taiwanindependence separatists, a ratcheting up of pressure even though Chinese courts have no jurisdiction on the democratically governed island.

China, which viewsTaiwanas its own territory, has made no secret of its dislike of President Lai Ching-te who took office last month, saying he is a "separatist", and staged war games shortly after his inauguration.

Taiwanhas complained of a pattern of ramped up Chinese pressure since Lai won the election in January, including ongoing military actions, trade sanctions and coast guard patrols aroundTaiwan-controlled islands next to China.

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The new guidelines say China's courts, prosecutors, public and state security bodies should "severely punishTaiwanindependence diehards for splitting the country and inciting secession crimes in accordance with the law, and resolutely defend national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity", according to China's state-run Xinhua news agency.