aiwan has strongly condemned China’s recent intercontinental ballistic missile test in the Pacific Ocean, describing it as “an attempt to undermine regional peace and stability,” according to a report from the Taipei Times, citing CNA.
The missile test, which was launched by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at 8:44 a.m. local time on Wednesday, has sparked widespread concerns about China’s growing military capabilities and the possible implications for regional security.
A statement from China’s Ministry of National Defence, posted on social media, confirmed that the missile carried a simulated warhead and landed in international waters. The ministry added that the launch was part of the PLA Rocket Force’s routine annual training exercises and emphasized that it complied with international law. According to Beijing, the missile test was not targeted at any specific country or region.
Nevertheless, Taiwan’s government issued a sharp response. On Thursday, Taipei’s Presidential Office condemned the missile launch, asserting that China was attempting to destabilize the region. The office called on Beijing to act with restraint and behave as a responsible player in the international arena.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also weighed in, noting that several countries in the Indo-Pacific region had expressed concern about China’s “irresponsible actions.” The ministry reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to working with its international partners to counter authoritarian expansion and ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The missile’s range reportedly covers most of the South Pacific region. Despite this, Beijing did not provide prior notice regarding the missile’s projected path or landing location, a move that Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council criticized as “bad behavior that seriously endangers regional security.”
This display of military power has heightened tensions in the region, drawing criticism from countries including Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, which have expressed their unease over the missile test and its implications for regional peace.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence went further, accusing China of “sabre rattling” through its missile test and concurrent live-fire drills conducted by the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command. The ministry also criticized Beijing for creating the “illusion of peaceful dialogue,” referencing the overseas engagements of the head of the PLA’s Southern Theatre Command, which coincided with the military exercises.
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