Premier called for restraint amid heightened tensions with China ahead of satellite launch

Premier Cho Jung-tai has called on China to exercise restraint as the neighboring superpower prepares for a satellite launch that will see its launch vehicle pass through Taiwan’s airspace. The launch, set for October 10—the same day as Taiwan’s National Day—has sparked concerns of increased military activity in the region.

In a legislative hearing on Tuesday, Cho stressed the need for calm, particularly as Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) confirmed that the satellite launch vehicle (SLV) from China’s Xichang Satellite Launch Center will enter Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) en route to the West Pacific.

Concerns were raised by Kuomintang (KMT) Legislator Yeh Yuan-chih, who asked if this launch might coincide with a new round of military exercises by China, potentially named “Joint Sword 2024 B,” following reports of such drills. A Reuters report, quoting a senior Taiwan security official, suggested that China may conduct military exercises shortly after Taiwan’s National Day, following a pattern established by the “Joint Sword 2024 A” drills earlier this year.

Premier Cho was firm in his response, urging Beijing to “conduct its military drills in its own jurisdiction, exercise restraint, and avoid actions that disrupt regional security and security in the Indo-Pacific region.” He assured lawmakers and the public that Taiwan’s military would monitor the satellite launch closely, gathering intelligence to ensure that there are no threats to public safety.

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“Taiwan will be prepared,” Cho said, emphasizing that the government is on high alert and committed to bolstering defenses ahead of National Day celebrations. The Premier reassured the public that national security remains a priority, with the government remaining vigilant against any potential threats from China.

The use of Taiwan’s ADIZ by foreign aircraft, particularly from China, has been a growing concern in recent years. An ADIZ, though not a part of a nation’s territorial airspace, is a zone where foreign aircraft are identified and monitored for security purposes.

As tensions simmer, the Premier’s call for restraint is a clear message to Beijing: while Taiwan remains watchful and prepared, it seeks stability in the region and hopes for de-escalation.