China Monitors Australian and Canadian Warships Passing Through Taiwan Strait
Beijing Condemns Foreign Naval Activity
On Saturday, China reported that it tracked the movements of Australian and Canadian warships transiting the Taiwan Strait, criticizing their passage as disruptive to the sensitive waterway.
Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theatre Command of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), stated that the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane passed through the strait on September 6. He described their presence as sending “the wrong signals” and raising security risks in the region.
PLA Response to the Transit
The PLA confirmed that Chinese naval and air units monitored the ships throughout their passage, ensuring a coordinated response. Shi emphasized that Chinese forces remain on high alert, prepared to defend national sovereignty and maintain regional peace and stability.
China’s Claim Over Taiwan Strait
Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and claims the waters of the Taiwan Strait fall under its jurisdiction. Taipei, however, operates as a self-governed island and rejects these sovereignty claims.
Escalating Military Presence Around Taiwan
China has increased military activity near Taiwan in recent years, deploying fighter jets and naval vessels to reinforce its territorial claims.
While the United States frequently navigates the Taiwan Strait, some of its allies, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, have conducted occasional but notable transits. In June, China criticized a UK navy patrol, saying it undermined peace and stability in the strait.
Implications for Regional Security
The recent passage of Australian and Canadian warships underscores rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Beijing continues to maintain a strong military presence to assert control and respond to the activities of foreign naval forces, emphasizing the importance of its territorial claims.