09 April 2023 , 11:31
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Chinese and Taiwan vessels have confronted each other in the South China Sea as tensions between the two counties continue.
Nearly 20 naval vessels, about 10 Chinese and 10 Taiwanese, are involved in the confrontation near the Taiwan Strait median line, it has been reported.
China initially sent warships and dozens of fighter jets towards Taiwan on Saturday in response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen visiting the US last week.
As part of the visit, President Ing-wen met with the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy.
In response, the Chinese military announced they will conduct “combat readiness patrols” over the weekend as a warning to the self-ruled island. Taiwan said at least 71 Chinese jets flew around the island on Saturday.
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Nearly 20 naval vessels, about 10 Chinese and 10 Taiwanese, are involved in a stand-off in the South China Sea (AFP via Getty Images)Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence confirmed a further 45 warplanes either crossed the Taiwan Strait median line - the area that separates the island from the mainland - or flew into the south-western part of Taiwan's air defence identification zone.
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) said: "This is a serious warning against the collusion and provocation between the Taiwan independence' separatist forces and external forces." The "Joint Sword" exercises "defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity," it added.
On Sunday, it was reported by CNN that China was simulating precision attacks on key targets in Taiwan, as well as in surrounding waters. The mock drills included “tactical maneuvers” by the Chinese navy, state media reported.
The Taiwanese military said missile defense systems were activated and air and sea patrols sent to track the Chinese aircraft.
There has been mounting tension between China and Taiwan, with Beijing increasingly sends warplanes into Taiwan's air defence zone (AP)"We condemn such an irrational act that has jeopardised regional security and stability," a Ministry of Defence statement said.
The US House of Representatives speaker, Kevin McCarthy, held talks with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday in California, adding to a series of foreign lawmakers who have met Tsai to show support in the face of Chinese intimidation.
Beijing responded Friday by imposing a travel ban and financial sanctions against American groups and individuals associated with Tsai's U.S. visit.
There has been mounting tension between China and Taiwan, with Beijing increasingly sending warplanes into Taiwan's air defence zone.
Taiwan split with China in 1949 after a civil war. The ruling Communist Party says the island is obliged to rejoin the mainland, by force if necessary.
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China sent warships and dozens of fighter jets towards Taiwan on Saturday (stock image) (RITCHIE B TONGO/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)Beijing says contact with foreign officials encourages Taiwanese who want formal independence, a step the ruling party says would lead to war.
The United States has no official relations with Taiwan, a centre for high-tech industry and one of the biggest global traders, but maintains extensive informal and commercial ties.
Washington is required by federal law to ensure the island of 22 million people has the means to defend itself if China attacks.
There have been growing concerns that China will attempt to use military power to take control of the island, as the country has built up its military presence near Taiwanese airspace.
This week's military drills, titled 'United Sharp Sword', have involved exercises in the Taiwan Strait to the north and south of the island as well as in the sea and airspace to its east.