The President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, promised this Thursday (01/01/2026) to defend the island’s sovereignty in a New Year’s message after China carried out military maneuvers around the territory.
“My stance has always been clear: resolutely defend national sovereignty, strengthen national defense and the resilience of the entire society, build comprehensive effective deterrence capabilities and build solid democratic defense mechanisms,” Lai said in a televised message from the presidential office.
The day before, China said it had “successfully completed” its military exercises around Taiwan.
This week, China launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy and coast guard ships to surround Taiwan.
During the maneuvers, the military simulated blockading Taiwanese ports and attacking maritime targets.
Taiwan called them “highly provocative and reckless” and said they had failed to impose a blockade on the self-ruled island.
mg (afp, reuters)
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