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Chinese aircraft, naval vessels spotted around Taiwan, says defence ministry

The development comes amid the backdrop of China continuing to increase the intensity of its military activity around Taiwan.

TNIE online desk

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said it detected two sorties of Chinese military aircraft, eight naval vessels and four official ships operating around its territorial waters as of 6 am local time on Sunday.

The ministry said it monitored the situation and responded accordingly.

In a post on X, it said, "2 sorties of PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 4 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded."

Earlier on Saturday, the MND said it detected five sorties of PLA aircraft, nine PLAN vessels and five official ships operating around itself.

In a post on X, it said, "5 sorties of PLA aircraft, 9 PLAN vessels and 5 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 am (UTC+8) today. 1 out of 5 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded."

Meanwhile, Focus Taiwan reported how earlier in June, Taiwan's first domestically built submarine departed from the Port of Kaohsiung for its latest round of sea trials that included dive tests.

Citing the Military News Agency, Focus Taiwan said that the trial marked the submarine's 15th sea trial overall and ninth submerged navigation test.

The development comes amid the backdrop of China continuing to increase the intensity of its military activity around Taiwan.

China's claim over Taiwan is a complex issue rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a viewpoint embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements.

Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its government, military, and economy. Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India.

China's claim to Taiwan originates from the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga.

(With inputs from ANI)

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