Taipei, Taiwan – A senior Taiwan coast guard official has warned that China could use “pretexts” to stage new military exercises around Taiwan in 2025, coinciding with politically sensitive dates. These could include the anniversary in May marking a year since President Lai Ching-te took office, as well as Taiwan’s National Day in October and the end of China’s annual fishing ban in August.
China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has regularly conducted military drills near the island. Recent exercises, starting on April 1, were described by Beijing as a “stern warning” against Taiwanese independence. However, unlike previous war games in 2024, which were named “Joint Sword-2024A” and “Joint Sword-2024B,” the latest drills remain unnamed.
Deputy Coast Guard Chief Hsieh Ching-chin highlighted that China might use diplomatic events or incidents related to Taiwan’s sovereignty as excuses for further military actions. He also noted an increase in Chinese activities near the Pratas Islands, a strategically significant atoll controlled by Taiwan but also claimed by China. These activities, including unauthorized entries into restricted waters, have been labeled as “coercive harassment” by Taiwan.
Taiwan’s coast guard, heavily involved in responding to Chinese military drills and illegal fishing activities, plans to adopt a new strategy to draw international attention to China’s actions. This includes evaluating the Philippines’ transparency policy as a potential model.
As tensions rise, Taiwan’s coast guard remains on high alert, prepared to support the navy and defend against potential threats. The situation underscores the delicate balance China faces in exerting pressure on Taiwan while avoiding international backlash.