Civilian fleet spotted deviating from normal routes suggests joint amphibious landing exercise with PLA is in the works amid Taiwan tensions.

More than 500 Taiwanese military personnel took part in National Guard-led exercises that simulated conflict in the Indo-Pacific.

China's assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea and tensions in the Taiwan Strait threaten international security and European interests, Germany's foreign minister said on Wednesday."China's growing military assertiveness in the South China Sea not only threatens Asia's security but also undermines the international rules-based order,

Tensions between China and the Philippines have intensified in recent years over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Both sides have accused each other of provocations, with altercations at sea involving ramming incidents, water cannon blasts, and clashes involving weapons such as spears and knives.

A view of the Taiwan Straits is seen from Xiamen port, in East China's Fujian Province. Photo: IC. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in the island of Taiwan plan to b

China's assertiveness in the South China Sea and tensions in the Taiwan Strait pose threats to international security that also impact Europe, German foreign minister Johann Wadephul said during a visit to Indonesia on Wednesday.

A vote to restore an old reactor reflects the island nation's energy challenges, booming chipmaker demand, and fears of a Chinese blockade.

Taiwan plans to increase its defence budget next year to over 3% of GDP, reflecting its commitment to security. This decision comes amid mounting military pressure from China and encouragement from Washington to bolster defence.

Beijing on Monday reiterated that the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair, warning against stirring up conflicts and exaggerating tensions after the German foreign minister said Beijing was "increasingly aggressive" in the Asia-Pacific region.

In a striking response, Australia and the Philippines kicked off Exercise Alon 25 last Friday, marking their largest-ever joint military exercises in the region, joined by observers from countries, including Canada, in a vivid signal of reinforced international solidarity.