China ramps up military drills as Taiwan's Lai visits Pacific
The Chinese army is increasing its presence around Taiwan ahead of President Lai Ching-te's visit to Pacific nations. This appears to be another form of provocation by the Chinese army during significant diplomatic visits by Taiwan's president.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence reported detecting 41 Chinese aircraft and ships near the island. Beijing’s increased military activity aligns with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's planned trip to Pacific nations that maintain diplomatic relations with Taipei.
In the past 24 hours, 33 aircraft and eight Chinese naval vessels were detected in the air and waters near Taiwan. On Thursday evening, 19 Chinese aircraft took part in a "joint air patrol" in the region. This is the largest number of Chinese units detected in a single day in three weeks.
President Lai, regarded by Beijing as a "dangerous separatist," will embark on his first official international trip on Saturday. Over seven days, he will meet with leaders from three Pacific nations: President of the Marshall Islands, Hilda Heine; Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Enele Sopoaga; and President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr. During the trip, he will also stop in Hawaii and Guam, which has previously caused dissatisfaction in China.
China's reactions
China often responds to visits by Taiwanese representatives in the US with military exercises around the island. Beijing also pressures Taiwan’s allies to sever ties with it in line with the "One China" policy.
The Chinese authorities claim Taiwan is part of the People's Republic of China, despite having never governed it. Xi Jinping emphasises that "the reunification of the motherland is a historical inevitability" and may require military intervention. The government in Taipei rejects these claims, stressing the right of its people to decide the country's future.
