Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te has announced plans to strengthen the country’s defenses amid a surge in Chinese infiltration and spying efforts. China has been increasing its presence around Taiwan, with ships and planes entering Taiwanese airspace and waters.
Lai cited recent incidents involving psychological warfare, as well as attempts by Chinese agents to subvert Taiwanese officials, recruit military personnel, and influence public opinion. These tactics include cultural products and personnel exchanges aimed at promoting Beijing’s line on unification.
In response, Lai proposed measures such as increasing penalties for crimes like spying and making it harder for Chinese nationals to obtain Taiwanese identification. Taiwan has also limited contact with individuals affiliated with the ruling Chinese Communist Party’s United Front department.
The island’s government recently expelled a Chinese citizen who repeatedly posted anti-Taiwan statements on social media. Retired Taiwanese service members have also been caught passing sensitive information about Taiwan’s military systems to Chinese agents.
Lai’s comments came on the 20th anniversary of China’s passage of its Anti-Succession Act, which outlined conditions under which China would invade Taiwan if it declared formal independence or refused unification indefinitely. Taiwan’s government maintains that it is already independent for all intents and purposes, and therefore there is no need to make such a declaration.
To bolster its defenses, Taiwan has been increasing its military capabilities with new missiles, US tanks, planes, and self-made submarines. The country has also extended the mandatory national military service period for men from four months to one year.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/taiwan-china-spying-president-lai-defenses-31be72adb44f826d265cdc17a6559cbd