BEIJING, 29 November 2021, (TON): A spokesperson said “the Chinese army has carried out a “naval and air force combat readiness patrol” near the Taiwan Strait following a contentious visit to the island by a group of American lawmakers.”

Tensions between Beijing and Washington have soared over the fate of democratic self-ruled Taiwan, which China has vowed to one day retake, by force if necessary.

A group of American lawmakers arrived on the island Thursday offering support for the Taiwanese authorities, who Beijing accuses of seeking independence for the island.

A spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command said in a statement “in response, the Chinese army on Friday carried out “a naval and air force combat readiness patrol in the direction of the Taiwan Strait.”

They added “this is a necessary measure in response to the current situation in the Taiwan Strait.”

They added “pledging the army would protect sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation.”