TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Aspokesperson for the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT, 美國在台協會) on Thursday (Dec. 12) dismissed concerns that recent Chinese military activities around Taiwan were a response to President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) transit through the United States. Speaking to the Central News Agency (CNA), the spokesperson assured that the U.S. remains vigilant regarding China's maneuvers in the region.
From Dec. 9 to 11, the Chinese military established seven reserved zones east of Zhejiang (浙江) and Fujian (福建) provinces, continuing its provocations toward Taiwan. The Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) reported detecting 34 Chinese aircraft, with 22 crossing the Taiwan Strait median line into northern, southwestern, and eastern airspace, and 16 naval vessels from Dec. 11 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 12 at 6 a.m.
According to the CNA, the AIT spokesperson noted the expansion of China's military posture and exercises in recent years, particularly in the East and South China Seas. However, the spokesperson clarified that China has not announced the Joint Sword military exercise. The spokesperson emphasized the U.S. call for China to refrain from actions that could destabilize regional peace and stability, pledging continued coordination with allies and partners.
President Lai concluded visits to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau on Dec. 6, transiting through Hawaii and Guam. As tensions persist, the international community closely watches China's military activities, with the U.S. advocating for diplomatic engagement to maintain stability in the region.
