China said on Wednesday that it does not need Taiwan's permission to open new air routes, after the self-ruled island complained that a new route over the narrow Taiwan Strait that separates the two posed a security and safety risk. Also read Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen blames China for regional instability"But this does not mean that opening air routes needs Taiwan's agreement," Ma said. Taiwan said on Friday the new flight path was so close to the middle line of the Taiwan Strait, it would affect Taiwan air force exercises and other flight operations. China considers Taiwan a wayward province and broke off official communication with the Taiwan government after Tsai took office in 2016. China says the exercises are routine, but that it will not tolerate any attempt by the island to declare independence.

Source: dna January 17, 2018 11:37 UTC