The National Security Bureau is working closely with the Ministry of National Defense and national security agencies to monitor Chinese military developments, taking into account multiple factors that could influence cross-strait ties, he added. Chinese military intimidation against Taiwan has become normalized — a combat readiness patrol is conducted every seven to 10 days, with about 10 fighter jets, other aircraft and three to four warships operating in the Taiwan Strait, Tsai said. Taipei has had “discussions” with international allies on whether a Chinese invasion is imminent, but tensions across the Taiwan Strait have not escalated sharply, he said. There is “currently no intelligence indicating an imminent war in the Taiwan Strait,” Tsai said, adding that the government would continue to monitor the situation and respond accordingly to avoid escalating tensions and to maintain stability in the strait. Beijing would continue its efforts to limit Taiwan’s international participation by promoting its “one China” principle around the globe in a bid to influence the new administration’s cross-strait policy, he said.

Source: Taipei Times March 12, 2024 14:16 UTC