Taiwanese authorities have reported a large Chinese military deployment around the island, ahead of President Lai Ching-te's visit.
A massive military deployment
The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense confirmed the presence of 41 aircraft and chinese military ships in the airspace and waters near Taiwan. This activity was detected within the last 24 hours. This Chinese military deployment around Taiwan, claimed by Beijing as part of the Chineconstitutes one of the most significant observed for more than three weeks. In addition, Taiwan also spotted a balloon, the fourth since Sunday, about 172 kilometers west of the island.
Taiwan under military pressure
In recent years, China has strengthened its military activities around Taiwan to put pressure on Taipei and encourage it to accept its sovereignty claims. Beijing regularly deploys fighter jets, drones and warships to the region. Lai Ching-te, who firmly defends Taiwan's sovereignty, will begin a tour on Saturday of the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau, the only three peaceful allies among the twelve that support Taiwan. During this mission, he plans to stay two nights in Hawaii and one in Guam, where he will meet “old friends“and”membres de think tanks“, according to a source at the presidency who wished to remain anonymous.
China strengthens its military posture
On Thursday, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian said thechinese army had the mission of defending the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Chine. She made it clear that she would react firmly against any attempt at independence by Taiwan. L'Taiwanese army quickly deployed aircraft, ships and coastal missile systems after spotting 19 Chinese aircraft near the island. According to Su Tzu-yun, a military expert from Taiwan's Institute for National Defense and Security Research, it is possible that China will hold a large-scale military exercise in response to Lai Ching-te's visit to Hawaii.
Source : Lefigaro.fr
