Taiwan appeals for cooperation to Australia in Chinese aggression

Taipei/Canberra/Beijing – It is indicated that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is stepping up its crackdown on Taiwan. On Monday, 52 Chinese planes entered Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). This is the first time that Chinese aircraft have infiltrated on such a large scale. Against the background of the constant intrusions by China, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has demanded that Australia provide more assistance in dealing with the Chinese threat.

In the 72 hours between Friday and Sunday, 93 Chinese planes entered Taiwanese airspace. It is clear from Monday’s infiltration that China is trying to pressurise Taiwan further. The intruders on Monday included 34 Shenyang J-16 fighter jets, 12 H-6 bombers, two Shanxi Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft, two KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft and two SU-30 jets.

In response to the Chinese intrusion, the Taiwanese air force immediately deployed fighter patrol jets. In a statement, the Taiwanese defence ministry said that it deployed a missile system and issued a radio warning. Taiwan is set to celebrate its ‘National Day’ next week. The Taiwanese Defence Forces have organised extensive military exercises and manoeuvres to mark the occasion. This exercise is considered important against the background of huge growth in provision for defence expenditure. Analysts in Taiwan claim that the record-breaking infiltration from China is an attempt to disrupt the ‘National Day’ exercises and increase pressure on Taiwan.

As the Chinese actions intensify, Taiwan’s foreign minister, Joseph Wu, calls for more help from Australia. In an interview with an Australian news channel, Foreign Minister Wu said more cooperation and exchanges were expected on confidential information and security issues. ‘We are fully aware that the responsibility of Taiwan is the responsibility of the Taiwanese government. But cooperation from democratic countries like Australia, in preparing for the war against China, will be helpful,’ said the Taiwanese foreign minister. He also mentioned that Taiwan shares excellent relations with Australia.

Last month, two plus two meeting was held between the United States and Australia. In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the two countries pledged to expedite efforts to strengthen ties with Taiwan. The United States and the United Kingdom have also struck the ‘AUKUS Deal’ with Australia, according to which nuclear submarines will be supplied to Australia. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister appreciated the move, saying it would increase Australian movements in the Indo-Pacific sector.

Meanwhile, the official mouthpiece of the Chinese communist regime, Global Times, claimed that the increasing number of planes sent by China’s PLA indicated readiness for an attack. The regular flights have given Chinese pilots a better understanding of Taiwanese territory. Besides, they will function like experienced pilots if ordered to strike, claims the Global Times.