Taiwan declared a state of military alert, and confirmed its ability to protect its security, prior to the arrival of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei on an upcoming visit that angered China, which promised the United States that it would pay the price if the visit took place.
The Taiwan Defense Ministry decided on Tuesday to raise the combat alert level for its forces from Tuesday morning until noon tomorrow, and said it has the determination, confidence and ability to ensure national security.
The ministry added that its forces are fully aware of the activities near Taiwan, and that they will be deployed to confront any threats to the enemy, in reference to Chinese military movements by air and sea.
In turn, Taiwan Prime Minister Su Tsing-chang reiterated his country’s welcome to foreign guests, and stressed that his country will make arrangements that fit with these guests and their plans, as he put it.
Reuters had quoted sources – described as well-informed – that the US House of Representatives speaker will visit Taiwan later on Tuesday, while the British Financial Times reported that Pelosi plans to meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in Taipei tomorrow, Wednesday.
The upcoming visit has raised tension between Washington and Beijing, and fears of a military confrontation between the two sides in the event that Chinese forces invade the island.
