Taiwan's Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng stated on Monday that the island must remain on alert this year in anticipation of any "sudden incursion" by the Chinese military into areas close to its territory, amidst increasing military tensions across the sensitive Taiwan Strait. In response to questions from a legislator, Chiu noted that the Chinese People's Liberation Army may find excuses to enter areas near Taiwan's air and maritime territorial domain as the island strengthens its military relations with the United States.