According to a spokesman, the Eastern Command of the People’s Liberation Army continued the exercises in response to the American provocations in the region and its support for the island’s independence forces.
He reiterated that Chinese forces are on high alert and ready to fight in defense of the country’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and predicted the failure of any action aimed at destabilizing peace and increasing tensions in the region.
On the other hand, the media website of the People’s Liberation Army quoted a high-ranking official as revealing preparations for a flight test of a military aircraft “of critical, strategic and historical importance” for the Asian country.
The report did not mention the type of device or the date of testing, but some netizens speculate that it is the H-20 stealth bomber.
In recent years, China has increased military exercises near Taiwan and in the South Sea and other maritime areas under its jurisdiction, in the face of constant raids from US ships and aircraft.
The day before, Li Zucheng, a prominent member of the Central Military Commission, urged Washington to avoid confrontation, handle differences with restraint, maintain dialogue, and uphold mutual respect.
The general also called for rational cooperation and warned that Beijing would never concede or surrender to anything that affected national interests.
China considers Taiwan an inalienable part of its territory and plans to reunite it, giving priority to peaceful means. But given the island’s independence aspirations, the central government does not rule out resorting to force.
Fear of the latter alternative is Taipei’s argument for asking Washington to provide it with arms and support in the event of Chinese aggression.
At the same time, the issue is the focus of the world’s attention and experts see an increase in the exercises and activities of all parties, an increase in the chances of an accidental conflict with incalculable consequences.
rgh / ymr
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