China has condemned Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang military exercises as a “wasteful charade” that fuels fears of war, marking Beijing’s first official response since the 10-day drills began last week.
Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Chen Xi on Friday accused Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party of “stoking war panic” and said the People’s Liberation Army remains prepared to counter what Beijing calls separatism and outside interference.
Taiwan drills test response to blockade
Taiwan, a self-governed democracy that rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims, used the exercises to rehearse responses to a potential Chinese attack, including breaking a maritime blockade.
This year’s drills also featured a new scenario involving efforts to slow mobile internet services during a conflict.
Chen said the PLA remains on high alert and is continuously strengthening its combat capabilities to safeguard China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, meanwhile, said the conclusion of the drills would not end efforts to strengthen the island’s defences and broader societal resilience.
“Together with the national military and all citizens,” Lai said, Taiwan would make the necessary preparations to protect its “democratic and free way of life” and preserve peace across the Taiwan Strait.
Tensions remain high across the Taiwan Strait
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control, although Beijing says it favours “peaceful reunification.”
Taiwan says its future can be decided only by its people and has repeatedly criticised China’s military and political pressure.
