Taiwan Reports First Chinese Combat Patrol of the Year Amid Renewed Call for Dialogue

Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense announced on Thursday that Chinese warplanes and warships conducted their first “combat patrol” of the year. The announcement follows President Lai Ching-te’s renewed appeal for dialogue with Beijing, which has so far dismissed such overtures.

China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, regularly deploys military forces near the island. Taiwan refers to these frequent operations as “joint combat readiness patrols.”

The ministry reported detecting 22 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighter jets, participating in a coordinated patrol with warships around Taiwan on Thursday morning. The aircraft operated in airspace to the north, west, southwest, and east of the island, prompting Taiwan’s forces to monitor the situation closely.

China’s Ministry of Defense has not commented on the reports.

In his New Year’s Day address, President Lai reiterated his willingness to engage in dialogue with Beijing, emphasizing the importance of peaceful exchanges. However, Beijing has consistently rebuffed his calls, labeling him a “separatist.” Last year, China conducted two rounds of military exercises near Taiwan, heightening tensions in the region.

On Wednesday, the Eastern Theatre Command of China, responsible for Taiwan-related operations, released a New Year’s video on social media. The footage showcased Chinese warships, aircraft, and a fighter jet approaching a U.S. P-8 Poseidon aircraft, a frequent presence in the Taiwan Strait. The video, accompanied by Andy Lau’s song Chinese, also included images of Chinese students visiting Taiwan last year at the invitation of former President Ma Ying-jeou.

Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung criticized the video, describing it as psychological warfare. “It is the People’s Liberation Army showing its intimidation of Taiwan,” he said.

President Lai and his administration maintain that only the people of Taiwan have the right to determine their future, reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding the island’s sovereignty.