Ministry warns separatists, foreign forces will destabilize cross-Strait situation

For the cross-Strait situation, there is no factor more destabilizing than the provocations made by the "Taiwan independence" separatists and the disruptions by foreign forces, said a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of National Defense on Thursday.

Zhang Xiaogang, the ministry's spokesman, warned that the island leader Lai Ching-te's provocations for "Taiwan independence" will only undermine stability in the Taiwan Strait and bring uncertainty to the Taiwan people.

"We warn the Democratic Progressive Party authorities that 'Taiwan independence' separatists will come to no good end," Zhang said.

He emphasized that the resolution of the Taiwan question is a matter solely for the Chinese people and does not tolerate outside interference.

"It is legitimate, necessary, lawful and justified for China to take measures to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity," he stated.

Zhang also called on the United States to stop fueling tensions over the Taiwan question, warning that such actions will ultimately backfire.

The People's Liberation Army will remain combat ready at all times, enhance combat readiness and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Zhang said.