08/10/2022 11:31 (act 08/10/2022 15:48)
China wants to take Taiwan by force. ©AP/CanvaPro
In the context of ongoing tensions in the Taiwan conflict, China has again threatened to take over the island republic by military means if necessary.
China will always go to great lengths to achieve peaceful reunification with Taiwan, according to a white paper on the Taiwan issue published by the Chinese government on Wednesday. At the same time, Beijing continued its military maneuvers around Taiwan.
“All Necessary Measures”
“(…) we will not refrain from using force and we reserve the right to take necessary measures,” the white paper continued. The use of force is “under compelling circumstances” the “last resort”.
no foreign interference
According to the Chinese leadership, foreign interference in Taiwan will not be tolerated. “We will thwart any attempt to divide our country,” he said. “The historic objective of reuniting our motherland must and will be realized.” China has made similar threats against Taiwan in the past.
Tensions after Pelosi’s visit
The latest tensions were sparked last week by a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei against Beijing’s opposition. The Chinese leadership rejects such official contacts from other countries with Taiwan because it sees the island as part of the People’s Republic. On the other hand, Taiwan has considered itself independent for decades. Since Pelosi’s visit, the People’s Liberation Army has been practicing not only a naval and air blockade, but also a possible conquest of the island in ongoing maneuvers.
twenty Chinese ships
About 20 Chinese navy ships remained active off Taiwan’s east and west coasts as of Wednesday morning, Portal learned. In fact, Beijing had scheduled the maneuvers for just four days. A video released by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV on Wednesday showed Chinese fighter jets in action, being refueled in the air and ships.