The president of Taiwan, Lai Ching Te, has promised this Thursday to protect the island despite the threats issued by China after his inauguration and after the Asian giant has launched a series of military maneuvers that will last for two days. This was stated during a visit to a naval base in Taoyuan, where he stated that his “responsibility is to safeguard the nation and guarantee the safety of all citizens.” This is the president’s first visit to a military base since he was sworn into office. “In the face of external challenges and threats, we will continue to defend the values of democracy and freedom while protecting peace and stability,” said Lai, who stressed that “he will remain with military personnel” to offer his support in the “protection of national security.” In this sense, he has asked all civilians for “confidence in the Army’s ability to be firm”, while reiterating his commitment to carry out a series of military reforms that will improve the capabilities of the Army and the care of military personnel. , according to information collected by the CNA news agency. However, he has not made direct reference to the maneuvers launched by China in response to his words after being sworn in, when he indicated that it was time for Beijing to “face the existence” of Taiwan as a “completely independent entity.” . The Chinese authorities have threatened Taiwan’s independence forces this Thursday with a bloody defeat if they oppose the “historic trend” that will lead the Asian country to “complete reunification.” Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense has criticized the Chinese military deployment and has indicated that the presence of at least fifteen Chinese Navy ships and 16 Coast Guard ships, in addition to 40 fighters, have been detected that have flown over the territory. . Local authorities have said they are “closely monitoring this type of maneuver” after also announcing the deployment of their air and naval forces in the vicinity.
