China, Indonesia to Hold Naval Drills East of Taiwan, Angering Taipei

China and Indonesia are set to conduct unprecedented joint naval exercises in waters east of Taiwan in mid-August, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Taipei. The Chinese Ministry of Defense announced that the frigate Honghe and an Indonesian warship will participate in drills centered on communication and at-sea replenishment.

Beijing claims these exercises aim to enhance joint operational capabilities, deepen cooperation, and contribute to regional peace and stability. Chinese analyst Zhang Junshe told the Global Times that these are the first naval maneuvers between China and a foreign country in waters east of Taiwan, an area where China has significantly increased its naval presence since late May.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) condemned the exercises, stating they aim to project a "false image" to the international community that Beijing exercises jurisdiction over the waters east of Taiwan. The MAC asserted that such unilateral actions demonstrate Beijing's disregard for international norms and its undermining of regional peace and stability.

Taipei has pledged to closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to defend its national sovereignty and regional peace. The announcement coincided with a visit to Jakarta by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Political Affairs Elbridge Colby, who met with Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. Sjamsoeddin emphasized that cooperation with Washington should bolster Indonesia's defense autonomy.

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Invitar a buques extranjeros a entrenar en aguas bajo jurisdicción propia es normal y razonable