China launches patrols, military exercises around Taiwan Island

NANJING: The Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Saturday launched combat readiness patrols and military exercises around the Taiwan Island, which will last from April 8 to 10, Beijing time, as scheduled.
 
The patrol and exercises take place in the maritime areas and airspace of the Taiwan Strait, off the northern and southern coasts of the island, and to the island’s east, said a spokesperson for the command Shi Yii, according to Xinhua.
 
“These operations serve as a stern warning against the collusion between separatist forces seeking Taiwan independence and external forces and against their provocative activities,” said Shi, adding that the operations are necessary for safeguarding China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity. – BERNAMA-XINHUA