The country is in an “unstable and uncertain” security situation, says China's President Xi Jinping|Global Panorama|CC BY-SA 2.0

Chinese President Xi Jinping told the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to strengthen training and be prepared for war as tension escalates between China and Taiwan.

Xi addressed the Chinese army to fight and defend the nation, adding the country is in an “unstable and uncertain” security situation. “Focus all energy on fighting, work hard on fighting and improve capability to win,” he said.

Xi’s order is the latest move in the mounting tension between China and Taiwan, as Beijing is focusing on “reunification” with Taipei.