Amidst escalating tensions with Taiwan over the island's presidential inauguration, China's Foreign Ministry has denounced the event while also criticizing the Philippines' standoff in the South China Sea.
China's Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the inauguration of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, reiterating its claim that Taiwan is an integral part of Chinese territory. The ministry's spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, asserted China's sovereignty over the island and vowed to take necessary measures to safeguard its territorial integrity.
Wang dismissed the inauguration as an "illegal and invalid" act, declaring that the self-governing island's pursuit of independence is a "dead-end path." He warned that any external interference in Taiwan's affairs would face severe consequences.
China's military response to the inauguration has been swift and forceful. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has launched large-scale military drills encircling Taiwan, involving fighter jets, warships, and amphibious forces. These drills are seen as a clear warning to Taiwan and its supporters.
Taiwan's foreign ministry has condemned the drills as "irrational provocation" and a violation of international law. President Lai Ching-te has called for Beijing to cease its military intimidation and has vowed to maintain Taiwan's freedom and democracy.
The tensions between China and Taiwan have been simmering for decades. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has threatened to use force if the island declares independence. Taiwan, on the other hand, maintains its self-governing status, supported by its strong democratic institutions.
Adding to the regional tensions, China has also criticized the Philippines' presence in the South China Sea. A Philippine ship recently conducted a resupply mission near a Chinese outpost on Scarborough Shoal, a disputed territory claimed by both countries.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian denounced the Philippine vessel's resupply mission as a "provocative act" that violated China's sovereignty. Zhao urged the Philippines to respect China's territorial claims and to avoid further escalation.
The Philippines has defended its actions, asserting that the resupply mission was within its territorial waters. The country also maintains that it has the right to engage in lawful activities in the South China Sea, which it considers part of its exclusive economic zone.
The tensions between China and its neighbors in the South China Sea have been ongoing for years. China claims vast portions of the sea based on its "nine-dash line," while neighboring countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia have competing claims.
The escalation of tensions in both Taiwan and the South China Sea has raised concerns among regional and international observers. The United States, a key ally of both Taiwan and the Philippines, has expressed concern over China's military drills and has urged all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue.
