The Taipei defense ministry has confirmed that a Chinese naval formation, spearheaded by the Shandong aircraft carrier, traversed the Taiwan Strait. According to Taipei's defense ministry, the carrier group entered the strait, which serves as the maritime boundary between the island and mainland China, proceeding in a north-to-south direction.

The defense ministry emphasized that ensuring "security and prosperity" in the Asia-Pacific region is a collective obligation and responsibility for all parties involved. It added that the military will persist in strengthening self-defense capabilities and addressing regional threats as part of its ongoing commitment.

In recent months, the Shandong aircraft carrier has navigated through the Taiwan Strait multiple times, marking a period of heightened military tension. Beijing has been increasing military pressure on the self-ruled island, asserting its claim over Taiwan as part of its own territory.

In a statement, the ministry reported that the naval formation sailed south through the strait, adhering to the western side of the waterway's median line—China's designated side of the unofficial barrier between the two regions. China asserts sole sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait, considering it a domestic waterway, a claim contested by both Taiwan and the United States. The ministry also mentioned that Taiwan deployed "appropriate" forces to monitor the formation, providing no further details.

The ministry emphasized that the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region are intricately linked to global development and stability. It stated that these are shared obligations and responsibilities among all parties in the region.

Additionally, Taiwan's military, as per the ministry's statement, will "prepare for war without seeking war," enhance its self-defense capabilities, and effectively respond to regional threats. As of now, there has been no immediate response from China's defense ministry following a request for comment.

Over the past four years, Taiwan has consistently raised concerns about heightened Chinese military activity in the vicinity, citing instances of fighters and drones crossing the median line of the strait. Taiwan reported an unusual night mission conducted by China's air force over the strait.

Taiwan remains on high alert for both military and political activities from China, particularly in the lead-up to its elections. Taipei is especially wary of what it perceives as Beijing's attempts to interfere in the election process to influence voters toward candidates favored by China.

Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party are currently leading in the polls. China considers them separatists and has rejected Lai's proposals for talks.

Image source: AFP