Taiwan 'preparing for war without seeking war': Military

Chinese military helicopters fly past Pingtan island, one of mainland China's closest point from Taiwan. Credit: AFP Photo

Taiwan's military said Thursday its forces were closely monitoring unprecedented Chinese drills taking place in waters surrounding the island and was prepared for conflict, but would not seek it.

"The Ministry of National Defence stresses that it will uphold the principle of preparing for war without seeking war, and with an attitude of not escalating conflict and causing disputes," Taipei's defence ministry said in a statement.