Mainland rejects Taiwan's 'right of self-defense' claim

The Chinese mainland denied on Wednesday Taiwan's assertion of the "right of self-defense" if a mainland aircraft enters the island's space, saying that Taiwan is a part of China.

Koo Li-hsiung, Taiwan security chief, claimed recently that the island's military would be ordered to exercise the "right of self-defense" if the People's Liberation Army "attacks" aircraft, vessels, facilities, or enters without permission within 12 nautical miles of the island's "territorial airspace and waters".

Chen Binhua, a spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a news conference in Beijing that "Taiwan is an integral part of China, and where does the 'right of self-defense' come from?"

He criticized the Democratic Progressive Party authorities in Taiwan for drawing so-called lines and setting "restrictions" on the mainland's just actions to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, calling it an act of overestimation.

The spokesman issued a stern warning to the DPP authorities, cautioning them against playing with fire.

"Any daring but reckless actions will only lead to self-destruction," he said.

Zhangyi1@chinadaily.com.cn