Chinese balloon flies across Taiwan, says Taipei

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – Taiwan said Tuesday that a Chinese balloon flew over the island nation, the first time such an incident has been reported.

According to Taiwan’s Defense Ministry, two Chinese balloons were “detected after crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait” on Monday, New Year’s Day.

The altitude of the balloons was approximately 9,144-9,754 meters (30,000-32,000 feet), the ministry said in a statement with a flight illustration of the balloons.

“The balloons headed NE (northeast) and disappeared at 23.43 (15.43GMT) yesterday and 00.43 today (1643GMT Monday),” the ministry added.

Taiwan also said several such flights by Chinese balloons had been seen in recent weeks.

However, a ministry analysis of the balloons shows they are apparently meant for weather purposes.

The island nation is set to hold its presidential elections on Jan. 13.

The ministry said it also detected four Chinese aircraft and three naval vessels around Taiwan early Tuesday.

One of the aircraft crossed the air defense identification zone, it added.

China, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province, does not recognize the median line or the air defense zone. Taipei, however, has insisted on its independence since 1949.​​​​​​​