TAIPEI: China dispatched over 30 warplanes and a fleet of navy ships towards Taiwan, revealed the island's defense ministry on Saturday.
This military escalation follows an announcement of anticipated discussions between senior American and Chinese representatives in Bangkok, as both nations strive to ease tensions.
The Chinese People's Liberation Army deployed 33 aircraft, including SU-30 fighters, and six naval vessels near Taiwan from 6 am Friday to 6 am Saturday. Among these, 13 warplanes breached the midline of the Taiwan Strait—an informal boundary acting as a buffer between the island and the mainland. Taiwan closely monitored the situation, mobilizing its own forces in response.
China regards self-governed Taiwan as its territory and has displayed discontent over political developments thereby sending military aircraft and ships. Taiwan reported that six Chinese aircraft either flew over the island or traversed airspace just north of it shortly after the election of Lai Ching-te as the new president. Lai's Democratic Progressive Party campaigned extensively on principles of self-determination, social equity, and resistance against Chinese threats.
United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi were both present in Bangkok for talks, although specifics regarding the timing of the meeting remained unclear.
US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping held discussions on the sidelines of a summit in November in an attempt to mend strained relations arising from disputes over various economic and geopolitical matters. A spokesperson from the US National Security Council, Adrienne Watson, affirmed that the planned Bangkok meeting upholds the commitment made by Biden and Xi "to maintain strategic communication and responsibly manage the relationship.”
During the talks, Foreign Minister Wang was expected to articulate China's stance on Taiwan, US-China relations, and address international and regional concerns, stated Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
One pressing international concern for both nations is the escalating tensions in the Red Sea, disrupting global trade and compelling numerous vessels to circumvent the Suez Canal. Beijing asserted its efforts to de-escalate the situation, which involves Iran-backed Houthi rebels launching missiles at international ships.
China Formalizes Diplomatic Ties with Nauru After Taiwan Split
Taiwan Faces Diplomatic Setback as Nauru Shifts Allegiance to China
Taiwan's Leaders Appreciate US Support Amid Beijing's Disapproval