China sends warships and planes around Taiwan

China has sent navy ships and fighter jets to patrol near Taiwan.

In the Taiwan Defense Ministry statement, it was noted that China took this step before Taiwan’s annual military exercises to defend against a possible invasion.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army sent 38 fighter jets and 9 navy ships around Taiwan. 32 of the planes reached the “median line” of the Taiwan Strait, which is considered the unofficial border and buffer zone between China and Taiwan.

The ships and planes sent around the island for about two days return to the south coast of China after the patrol.

Taiwan plans to hold its annual “Han Guang” exercise this month in preparation for possible invasion attempts. In addition, Taiwan will hold the annual “Wan’an” exercise to prepare civilians for air raids and natural disasters.

Taiwan, which China defends as part of its territory, has enjoyed de facto independence since 1949, when the People’s Republic of China was founded. The separation that arose after the civil war between mainland China and Taiwan still continues. Beijing, emphasizing the “One China” principle, opposes Taiwan establishing independent diplomatic relations with the countries of the world, its representation in the United Nations and other international organizations, and stipulates that countries that recognize it must break diplomatic relations with Taiwan. (AA)