Defense ministry closely monitoring China's live-fire drills

Taipei, May 22 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said late Wednesday that it was keeping close track of China's live-fire exercises being held in waters off the southeastern Chinese coastal city of Shantou.

China's Maritime Safety Administration on May 20 issued a no-sail warning for a maritime zone off Shantou, citing plans for live-fire exercises on Tuesday and Thursday.

The exercises were scheduled to take place between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on both days, according to the notice.

In response to CNA's request for comment, the MND said Wednesday night that it was closely monitoring Chinese military activities related to the drills, which so far have not affected Taiwan's air or marine safety.

The MND said that by means of its joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, it always keeps abreast of China's routine and ad hoc military exercises.