<p>China has given its clearest sign so far at how it would blockade and forcefully take Taiwan, with large-scale military drills surrounding the island. </p><p>The live-fire exercises disrupted up to 100,000 airline passengers as Chinese forces simulated blockading ports and stopping cargo ships carrying American weapons to help the Taiwanese defend themselves. </p><p>China claims the drills show its military’s increasing ability to control the Taiwan strait and force the self-ruled island under Beijing’s control. </p><p>But why do so many Taiwanese still doubt China’s leader Xi Jinping will really invade?</p><p>Asia Specific host Mariko Oi is joined by William Yang, Senior North-east Asia analyst for think tank Crisis Group, and Asia’s Specific’s Bill Birtles, a former Beijing and Taipei correspondent. </p><p>Asia Specific brings you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the Asia Pacific region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.</p><p>Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people. </p><p>Whether it is the latest on trade between China and Donald Trump, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy - we unpack what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. </p><p>Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. </p><p>Get in touch: [email protected]</p>