China works on non-military invasion of Taiwan

The Chinese authorities prepare a "non-military" special operation in Taiwan to seize the territory of the island, Radio Free Asia (funded by the US government) reports.

A number of politicians and experts expressed concerns over the directive signed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping on June 13. The document entitles the Chinese army to conduct special operations to prevent threats, maintain peace and protect the sovereignty of the country.

China's state-run Global Times publication said that it goes about "operations other than wars." Beijing thus provides itself with a legal basis for the invasion of Taiwan, Radio Free Asia concluded.

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian said that Beijing would respond militarily should anyone attempt to separate Taiwan from China. The statement from the Chinese official followed as a response to the recent promise from the authorities of the United States to increase the amount of military assistance amid fears of China's possible invasion.