U.S. Rebukes China Over Taiwan's National Day Celebrations

The U.S. criticizes China for possibly using Taiwan's national day speech as an excuse for military action. The speech, marking Taiwan's 113th Republic of China anniversary, has sparked concerns of military drills by Beijing. The U.S. urges restraint, emphasizing stability in cross-Strait relations.

China has no justification for leveraging Taiwan's annual national day speech as a reason for military pressure, the United States stated on Wednesday, preceding anticipated remarks by Taiwan's president. Taiwanese sources intimated that Beijing might follow up with military drills.

A senior U.S. official noted that the Oct. 10 address, celebrating the Republic of China's 113th birthday, should not prompt Chinese military maneuvers. Historically, similar occasions have not resulted in significant military activity, but preparation for potential exercises this year is underway.

The official stressed that utilizing a routine celebration as a pretext for military coercion undermines cross-Strait stability. After previous provocations, like the May war games post-inauguration of President Lai Ching-te, the Chinese embassy did not immediately comment. Meanwhile, diplomatic partners have been briefed about the speech's context.

(With inputs from agencies.)