Taiwan on high alert as China begins military drills

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) convened a high-level national security meeting on Monday (Oct. 14) in response to China's latest military drills, dubbed "Joint Sword 2024B" (聯合利劍-2024B), which are taking place in the waters surrounding Taiwan. The meeting, attended by key government officials, focused on Taiwan's countermeasures as the region faces growing tensions.

National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) confirmed that the meeting addressed the threat posed by China’s military exercises, which involve the Chinese army, navy, air force, and rocket force. Wu assured the public that Taiwan’s government is monitoring the situation closely and that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the nation.

Taiwan's Response to Growing Threats
"Regarding this morning's drill, the president called a high-level meeting on national security," Wu said. "The president gave clear instructions to address the threat of China's military forces and the Executive Yuan's responses." He emphasized the government's proactive stance in handling the situation and maintaining national security.

The Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) also took swift action, with Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) and Chief of the General Staff Admiral Mei Chia-shu (梅家樹) presiding over a control meeting at a response center. Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Sun Li-fang (孫立方) confirmed that troops across Taiwan have been ordered to stay vigilant. "We have asked all troops to stay vigilant, enhance surveillance, and coordinate with Coast Guard patrols and other units," Sun said.

The drills, launched earlier on Monday, were anticipated by Taiwan's national security officials, who issued warnings on Oct. 7 of potential military actions from China following Taiwan's National Day celebrations on Oct. 10. However, China has not disclosed how long the drills will last, leaving the timeline uncertain.

Calls for Peace and Stability
Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) condemned China's military activities, accusing Beijing of disregarding Taiwan's desire for peace. Chiu criticized China for heightening tensions in the region instead of fostering dialogue.

Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) echoed these sentiments, urging China to recognize Taiwan’s existence as a democratic nation. Kuo called for Beijing to respect Taiwan's democratic choice and warned that military provocations would only destabilize the region, adding that Taiwan remains committed to maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait.

China's Military Focus
According to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA, 解放軍), the "Joint Sword 2024B" drills will focus on sea-air patrols, controlling key ports, and testing joint combat capabilities. The exercises, involving China’s armed forces, are designed to demonstrate Beijing’s military strength and readiness in the region.

While the PLA has not provided a timeline for the drills, Taiwan's defense officials are closely monitoring all developments. Wu reassured the public that the government remains vigilant and prepared to handle any escalation from China.

As the drills continue, Taiwan's leadership has emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to cross-strait tensions while strengthening its defense capabilities in response to growing threats from China.