TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — China has ramped up its hybrid tactics to pressure Taiwan, according to the National Security Bureau (NSB).
Beijing has also expanded its cyber warfare capabilities, the NSB said on Tuesday (Oct. 15). It has intensified its use of online disinformation, such as employing “internet trolls,” fake accounts, and AI technology, per CNA.
China has also distorted the interpretation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 by linking it with the “one China” principle to claim control of Taiwan and undermine its international participation. To suppress the “Taiwan independence” sentiment, Beijing introduced 22 measures in June to punish those advocating it.
Suspects can be tried in absentia and even sentenced to death. The measures are an attempt to expand China’s jurisdiction over Taiwan.
The report pointed out that China's efforts to extend its presence to the East and South China Seas have triggered responses from the international community, such as the US’s decision to establish an Indo-Pacific resilience partnership with allies and partners from the region and Europe.
China’s Joint Sword 2024B drills on Monday (Oct. 14) were designed to demonstrate its deterrent power, the NSB said. It was the first time that its coast guard ships were deployed in joint readiness patrols.
President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has pledged to bolster national defense and protect the well-being of the Taiwanese under his Four Pillars of Peace action plan. Lai said three new committees have been established to address Taiwan's global challenges, including climate change and authoritarian expansion: the National Climate Change Committee, Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee, and Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee.
The Ministry of National Defense will soon conduct three major exercises to strengthen combat readiness and joint operations capabilities. The Army’s Chang Tai No. 19 exercise, the Navy’s Hai Chiang Exercise, and the Air Force’s Tianlong Exercise are all scheduled to last from late October to early November.