Taiwan has strongly criticised China's recent military exercises conducted near Hong Kong, dismissing Beijing's territorial claims as "absurd" and "ridiculous." The drills, which took place close to the semi-autonomous region, have further strained already tense cross-strait relations.
Chinese state media reported that the exercises were routine and aimed at "safeguarding national sovereignty." However, Taiwanese officials argue that the move is a deliberate provocation, designed to intimidate the self-ruled island.
Escalating Tensions
The military drills come amid heightened friction between Taipei and Beijing, with China repeatedly asserting its claim over Taiwan. The island, which operates as a democratic nation in all but name, has consistently rejected Beijing's sovereignty claims.
Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council issued a statement saying: "China's actions are not only unnecessary but also undermine regional stability. Their rhetoric about protecting sovereignty is completely unfounded."
International Concerns
The situation has drawn attention from global observers, with many Western nations expressing concern over China's increasingly aggressive posturing. The United States, a key ally of Taiwan, has repeatedly called for peaceful dialogue between the two sides.
Analysts suggest that China's latest military display may be linked to upcoming political events in Taiwan, including local elections later this year. "Beijing often ramps up pressure during sensitive political periods," said one regional expert.
Hong Kong's Role
The choice of location for the drills - near Hong Kong - has raised additional questions. Since Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law on the former British colony in 2020, many see Hong Kong as a testing ground for China's approach to Taiwan.
"Using Hong Kong as a backdrop sends a clear message," noted a political science professor. "It's a not-so-subtle reminder of what Beijing believes it can achieve through force."
As tensions continue to simmer, regional stability hangs in the balance, with Taiwan maintaining its defensive posture while calling for international support against what it views as Chinese bullying.
