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A vessel navigates among wind turbines in the Taiwan Strait near Pingtan Island, Fujian Province, China, on April 10, 2023. — Reuters
China announced Saturday that its military observed the transit of Australian and Canadian warships through the Taiwan Strait, criticizing their passage as “provoking trouble.” The country asserts sovereignty over Taiwan and claims jurisdiction over the strait separating the self-governing island from mainland China.
“On September 6, the Canadian frigate ‘Quebec’ and the Australian destroyer ‘Brisbane’ passed through the Taiwan Strait, creating disturbances and provoking reactions,” declared Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The PLA deployed naval and air forces to monitor and oversee their entire transit, responding accordingly, Shi added in a statement.
He further stated, “The actions by Canada and Australia send the wrong message and escalate security risks.” He emphasized that Chinese troops are on high alert at all times, committed to defending national sovereignty, security, and regional stability.
In recent years, Beijing has intensified its deployment of fighter jets and naval vessels around Taiwan to bolster its sovereignty claims, which Taipei rejects. The United States frequently conducts naval operations through the Taiwan Strait, and other Western allies have also increased their presence, though less frequently.
Back in June, China criticized the UK for sending a navy patrol vessel through the strait, claiming it undermined peace and stability.
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