Ma, who returned to Taiwan earlier in the day from a 12-day state visit to three ROC African allies, told high-ranking commanders that they must not ignore the military threat posed by Beijing and should remain vigilant at all times.
“We cannot be lulled into a false sense of security as a result of the good will shown by mainland China,” he said. “To do so jeopardizes national security and gives us no chance in a possible cross-strait crisis.”
The president also highlighted the importance of strengthening the country’s defense capability as opposed to relying on foreign military intervention to counter external aggression. “This approach is key to maintaining peaceful cross-strait relations,” he said.
Responding to criticism that he prioritizes diplomatic relations over national defense, Ma said he was fully briefed on the exercises prior to his African trip and remained abreast of developments with real-time updates.
The two-stage round-the-clock war games are the biggest and the most important drills involving all branches of the ROC military.
The first stage, which runs April 16-20, includes defending Hsinchu airport from airborne assault, repelling amphibious landings at Pingtung County’s Fangliao Township and coordinating mechanized infantry and support maneuvers.
Commencing July 16, the computer-assisted second stage focuses on countering a mainland Chinese missile and drone attack, as well as strengthening joint air defense and electronic warfare capabilities. (JSM)
Write to Rachel Chan at rachelchan@mail.gio.gov.tw