Wellington Koo, the Taiwanese defence minister, has said the island nation is “determined” to defend itself and its way-of-life, in the face of Chinese aggression.
He was discussing naval exercises which are to take place next month.
At the same time, China said it would ensure it was combat-ready in the face of “separatist” activities.
Koo said that the Taiwanese army would simulate repelling a Chinese invasion in the exercises next month.
He was quoted as saying that the military exercises would: “let the international community know that we are determined to defend ourselves, and to pass on to China that the nation’s military has the confidence and ability to defend a free and democratic life.”