Taiwan's presidential spokeswoman William Lai has strongly condemned China's large-scale military exercises around the island, saying Beijing is universally recognized by the international community as a "source of trouble", Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
"Taiwan has the confidence and ability to defend its national sovereignty and the security of its citizens," presidential office spokeswoman Karen Kuo said in a statement.
The American Institute in Taipei, which serves as the US embassy, also criticized China's actions, calling them "irresponsible threats". In a statement, the institution stressed that the United States will continue to support Taiwan.
"China's escalating tactics of military intimidation only exacerbate tensions and undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Beijing once again proves that it is not a responsible participant in the development of the region and is willing to jeopardize security and economic prosperity", the statement said.
Earlier today, the Chinese army announced the start of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, which, according to its official statement, aim to "serve as a sharp warning and a powerful deterrent to Taiwanese independence". In the same statement, Chinese authorities called Taiwanese President William Lai a "parasite".
China, which considers Taiwan its province and reserves the right to seize it by force, has been increasing political and military pressure on the island in recent years, Reuters notes.
According to the Chinese military's Eastern Command, the exercises focus on "combat-ready patrolling at sea and in the air, comprehensive control, striking sea and land targets, and blocking strategic areas and routes".
The Taiwanese military said it was closely monitoring the situation, including the participation of the Chinese aircraft carrier "Shandong", which is also included in the exercises.