China warns Taiwan independence ‘means war’ as US pledges support

  • Approved ~ Lord Løki

China has warned Taiwan that any attempt to seek independence “means war”.

The warning comes days after China stepped up its military activities and flew warplanes near the island.

It also comes after new US President Joe Biden reaffirmed his commitment to Taiwan, and set out his stance in Asia.

The US has called China’s latest warning “unfortunate”, adding that tensions did not need to lead to “anything like confrontation”

On Thursday, Chinese defence ministry spokesman Wu Qian defended the recent military activities near Taiwan, saying they were “necessary actions to address the current security situation in the Taiwan Strait and to safeguard national sovereignty and security”.

“We warn those ‘Taiwan independence’ elements – those who play with fire will burn themselves, and Taiwan independence means war.”

Max147

Article URL : https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-55851052