China's Military Exercises Near Taiwan: A Warning Against "Taiwan Independence"

Beijing Signals Its Resolve Through Military Drills in the Taiwan Strait

Following military exercises conducted by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in mid-March around the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense has provided further details regarding the ongoing activities. Speaking at a regular press conference on March 27th, PLA spokesperson Wu Qian stated that the Eastern Theater Command recently organized "combat readiness patrols and joint exercises" in the airspace and waters near Taiwan.

Wu Qian characterized these actions as a "powerful punishment" against "Taiwan independence" separatists and a "solemn warning" to external interference forces.

The press conference also addressed questions regarding President Lai Ching-te's recent designation of China as an "external hostile force," as well as the PLA's mid-March exercises. A Hong Kong media outlet inquired about the interpretation that these exercises were a response to Lai's "pro-independence statements" and recent developments in US-Taiwan relations. Wu Qian's remarks came in direct response to this line of questioning, solidifying the PLA's stance.