TAIPEI, (Reuters) – Taiwan does not want military confrontation but will defend its freedom regardless of the cost, President TsaiIng-wen stated Friday. This comes amid a rising tension with China which has sparked concern around the globe.

Taiwan was claimed as China’s territory by China. It reported that close to 150 Chinese aircraft flew in its air defense zone during a period of four days beginning Friday. However, those missions are now over.

Taiwan protested for nearly a full year about these activities. They are “grey-zone warfare”, Taiwan’s attempt to weaken its armed forces, and to challenge their response capabilities.

Tsai said that Taiwan doesn’t seek military confrontation during a Taipei security forum.

“It hopes for peaceful, stable and predictable coexistence with its neighbor.” Taiwan is willing to do anything necessary for its democracy and freedom.

China claims it’s protecting its sovereignty and security, but has placed the blame on the United States for these tensions, Taiwan’s largest international supporter and arms supplier.

Tsai stated that the Indo-Pacific region needs to be peaceful, stable, and transparent in order for it to prosper. There are plenty of opportunities available in this area.

However, this can also bring new tensions to the system and could cause serious damage to international security and global economic stability if not managed properly.

To ensure stability in Taiwan, Taiwan will cooperate with the other members of the regional community she said.

“Taiwan fully commits to working with regional actors to stop armed conflict at the East China Seas, South China Seas, and Taiwan Strait.”

Taiwan, which has sought support from other democracies in the face of China’s worsening standoff, is now hosting Tony Abbott and four French senators. However, he will only be there as a private visitor.

Abbott spoke at the same forum and condemned China for aggressive actions. He was speaking not only about his country, but Taiwan as well.

With its population ageing, the economy slowing down and its finances creaking, it might be at its absolute peak. “It is possible for Beijing to lash out catastrophically quite quickly,” he stated.

Abbott stated that the United States should not sit back and allow China to “swallow up Taiwan.”

“I believe Australia shouldn’t be indifferent about the fate of a democracy that has almost 25,000,000 people.”