BEIJING: China started military exercises around Taiwan on Saturday after expressing concerns over a stopover by the island’s vice president, William Lai, in the United States, AFP reported.
According to reports Lai, who would be contesting Taiwan’s presidential election next year, stopped in New York while on a trip to Paraguay, a country that diplomatically recognizes Taiwan.
China Starts Military Drills Near Taiwan
China terming Lai a “troublemaker” said it would take all forceful measures to safeguard national sovereignty.
The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army launched joint air and sea military drills on Saturday around Taiwan.
As per reports, the exercise is meant to test the PLA’s ability to seize control of air and sea spheres and fight in war-like conditions.
The drills would also give a strong warning to the separatists in Taiwan with foreign elements and their provocations.
Washington has called for peace over Lai’s transit in US, describing the travel as routine.
