China warns foreign interference in Taiwan will be crushed'

"China has warned it will crush any foreign attempts to interfere on behalf of Taiwan, after Japan announced plans to deploy missiles near the democratically-governed island. We have a firm will, strong determination and a strong ability to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Peng Qingen, a spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, told a news conference on Wednesday."

"Japan's deployment of offensive weapons in areas adjacent to China's Taiwan region is extremely dangerous, deliberately creating regional tensions and provoking military confrontation, Peng said, speaking in response to a question on the planned deployment of missiles on a nearby Japanese island. Koizumi said the deployment of the medium-range surface-to-air missile system on Yonaguni would enhance Japan's security. We believe that having this unit in place will actually lower the chances of an armed attack against our country, he said."

"China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs blasted the announcement, describing Japan's plan as a deliberate attempt to create regional tension and provoke military confrontation. Koizumi pushed back, saying the Type 03 guided missile system was purely defensive and intended to counter aircraft and missiles invading our nation. They are not intended to attack other countries, are deployed throughout Japan, and clearly do not heighten regional tensions, he told reporters."

China declared it will crush any foreign attempts to interfere on behalf of Taiwan and affirmed a firm will and strong ability to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Beijing criticized Japan's planned deployment of weapons near Taiwan as extremely dangerous and likely to provoke military confrontation. Japan announced plans to deploy a medium-range Type 03 surface-to-air missile system on Yonaguni, saying the unit would enhance Japanese security and lower the chance of an armed attack. Tokyo insists the system is defensive and not intended to attack other countries. Taiwan welcomed Japan's increased military capability.

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