Taipei: The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced on Monday that China's recent military exercises around Taiwan demonstrate a "two-pronged" strategy towards the island. This move comes just a day after a forum aimed at fostering exchanges between Taipei and Shanghai, highlighting Beijing's simultaneous pursuit of engagement and intimidation.

According to Focus Taiwan, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) commenced a new set of military drills named Justice Mission 2025, which are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas. The exercises focus on "sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade of key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain." The PLA stated that these drills serve as a "stern warning to 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces."

In light of these developments, Taiwan's MAC criticized the timing of the military exercises, noting that they coincided with the conclusion of the Taipei-Shanghai Twin-City Forum. The MAC described China's actions as a "carefully orchestrated two-pronged strategy," accusing Beijing of simultaneously advocating for closer ties while resorting to military intimidation. Calling Beijing a "troublemaker," the MAC condemned the PLA's display of force as unacceptable to both Taiwan and the international community.

The Twin-City Forum, an annual event since 2010, aims to strengthen city-level exchanges between Taipei and Shanghai. During the forum held over the weekend, Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng emphasized the potential for these exchanges to enhance "a real sense of gain, happiness, and security" for people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Despite the diplomatic overtures, tensions remain high, with Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an expressing his hope for the Taiwan Strait to symbolize "peace and prosperity" rather than conflict.

Mayor Chiang, leading a 120-member delegation to the forum, reiterated his commitment to "dialogue, not confrontation" amid the PLA's military maneuvers. He emphasized the government's responsibility to mitigate risks, manage crises, and ensure the safety of its citizens, condemning any actions that could escalate regional tensions.