Beijing: Taiwan said on Monday it is closely monitoring what it called unusual changes in China’s military leadership after one of Beijing’s top generals was placed under investigation.
Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo told reporters that the developments inside China’s armed forces were abnormal and needed careful observation. He said Taiwan would not lower its guard and would continue to treat China as a serious security threat.
China recently put General Zhang Youxia, a vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and one of the country’s most senior officers, under investigation for suspected serious violations of discipline and law. Zhang is one of the highest ranking military figures below President Xi Jinping.
Another senior officer, Liu Zhenli, who serves as chief of staff of the joint staff department of the Central Military Commission, has also been reported to be under investigation.
Taiwanese officials said they are using intelligence and surveillance systems to better understand what is happening inside the Chinese military and what it could mean for regional security. They added that leadership changes in Beijing do not reduce the risk Taiwan faces.
China has not given detailed public explanations about the investigations. In the past, similar cases have been linked to anti corruption campaigns or efforts to strengthen political loyalty within the military.
Analysts say the sudden removal or investigation of senior commanders could temporarily affect decision making inside China’s military. However, they also believe the moves could allow President Xi to tighten control over the armed forces by promoting leaders seen as more loyal.
China continues to carry out regular military activities around Taiwan, including sending warplanes and ships near the island. Taiwan says these actions remain its main concern, regardless of leadership changes in Beijing.
Taiwan’s defence ministry said it will stay alert and maintain full preparedness while keeping a close watch on further developments in China’s military command.