Question: The “Central News Agency” of Taiwan reported recently that an FCDO official of the UK said upon inquiry that the frequent activities of the Chinese military aircraft around Taiwan are not conducive to regional peace or stability. What is the comment of the Chinese Embassy in the UK?

Embassy Spokesperson: Taiwan is part of China and the UK side has no right to interfere. If the UK official did make the above-mentioned comment, that is a serious violation of the one-China principle and is extremely wrong and irresponsible.

Taiwan and its affiliated islands are a sacred and inseparable part of the Chinese territory. The Chinese military’s combat readiness patrol is completely justified and lawful. It is a necessary step taken in light of the security situation in the Taiwan Strait and with a view to safeguarding national sovereignty. The Chinese military has the determination and capability to defeat all separ atist activities seeking “Taiwan independence”, safeguard China’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and defend the peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

The Chinese side urges the UK side to observe the one-China principle, handle Taiwan-related issues properly, and refrain from interfering in China’s internal affairs in any form.