MOFA response to China’s unilateral announcement of joint exercises with Indonesian navy in waters off Taiwan’s east coast

August 12, 2026

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) strongly condemns China's unilateral announcement on August 11 that it would conduct so-called "joint operations" and "navigation exercises" with the Indonesian navy in waters off the east coast of Taiwan. China's reckless and irresponsible behavior in repeatedly disregarding international norms and responsibilities continues to escalate regional tensions.

Following China's claim that Indonesia would participate in the so-called "exercises," Taiwan immediately sought clarification from the relevant parties and requested further details from the Indonesian government. Nevertheless, among all stakeholders near the first island chain, only the Beijing authorities have engaged in such malicious, provocative, and irresponsible unilateral actions, which seek to destabilize and threaten the region.

MOFA emphasizes that Taiwan, as a responsible member of the region, will uphold its consistent stance of safeguarding its territory, actively protect its sovereignty and sovereign rights in the waters off its east coast, and work with all parties in the region to jointly ensure freedom of navigation and regional security and stability.