Beijing has territorial claims against Japan, South Korea and Taiwan and is using "salami-slicing" military and economic tactics in its efforts to assume control of the strategically important areas.
In an exclusive interview with DW, Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said China's growing military aggression toward Taiwan reflects Beijing's future strategy to invade the democratic island.
Beijing's pledge to conduct "regular patrols" near Taiwan following its large-scale military drills points to a worrisome and dangerous development, say analysts.