Beijing confirmed that all assignments on the island were successfully completed, and added that periodic patrols will be continued.
China announces an end of the unusual military exercises surrounding Taiwan that were started following Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei, the US House Speaker.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) said on Wednesday that it had “successfully completed various missions during recent drills around Taiwan island and effectively tested the troop’s joint operation combat capacity,” as reported by the Global Times.
China said it will continue “Preparation and training for military service,” and organize patrols in the Taiwan Strait in order to “Resolutely protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity” Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Colonel Shi Yi said.
It was announced shortly after Beijing issued a White Paper denying the possibility of the use force in efforts to unify Taiwan from the mainland. The White Paper also noted Beijing’s commitment to peaceful unification.
“Our sincere efforts will be put into achieving peaceful reunification. We will not give up the use force and reserve the right to take all the necessary steps.” the document read.
Beijing noted that this contingency was needed to prevent “Separatist activities and external interference” and accused “US anti-Chinese Forces” of deliberately escalating tensions between China and Taiwan.
Nancy Pelosi, the US House Speaker made an unusual visit to the island last week despite numerous protests by the Chinese government. In response, Beijing launched “unprecedented” military exercises and live-fire drills in six maritime areas around Taiwan.
The maneuvers included the simulation of a “blockade” of the island, as well as amphibious assaults and the striking of ground targets, according to the Chinese Defense Ministry.
China considers Taiwan an inalienable part of its territory and views visits such as Pelosi’s as an attack on its sovereignty and a violation of the ‘One China’ principle, under which most countries refrain from diplomatic recognition of Taiwan.
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