Pakistan, July 6 -- China has opened a third extension to its M503 flight path near the Taiwan Strait, drawing a sharp protest from Taipei, which called the move "unilateral" and destabilizing. The newly added W121 extension runs close to the sensitive median line that has traditionally served as a buffer between Taiwan and mainland China.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council condemned the decision, saying it threatens the current status quo and increases cross-strait and regional tension. Officials in Taipei stressed that any changes to flight routes must be mutually agreed upon and not imposed. The move comes just days ahead of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang military exercises, which simulate a potential Chinese invasion or blockade.

China's ...