She said Beijing The aim of the exercise, dubbed “Joint Sword 2024B,” is to “test the joint operational capabilities” of the forces.
Commenting on the Chinese announcement, she said: Taiwan It “deployed appropriate forces” in response to the shooting China “Encirclement” military maneuvers in which it participates Planes And ships.
In a statement, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry condemned China’s “irrational and provocative behavior” and said it “deployed appropriate forces to respond appropriately in order to protect freedom.” And democracyAnd also with the aim of defending Taiwan’s sovereignty.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has pledged to restore it by force if necessary.
Over the past four years, China has been carrying out periodic military activities around Taiwan, including large-scale military exercises in 2022 and 2023.
China says that any move by Taiwan to formally declare its independence would constitute a justification to attack the island.
