TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan dismissed China’s criticism of its Han Kuang 41 live-fire exercise on Thursday.

Chen Binhua (陳斌華), spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, accused the DPP administration of “stubbornly” clinging to separatist views, Liberty Times reported.  

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council Spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh (梁文傑) blasted Chen’s remarks as “repetitive rhetoric.” Liang stressed that Taiwan has maintained a highly capable and effective military since 1949, and its defense strength has consistently ranked among the top globally. 

He said that China’s view that simply preparing for war equates to seeking independence is “absurd.” He added that a strong national defense is the key to preserving Taiwan’s sovereignty and security.

The live-fire segment of Han Kuang 41 entered its second day on Thursday. Drills were carried out to simulate preventing Chinese military planes from landing at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.