China’s military has criticized the navigation of an Australian warship through the Taiwan Strait, labeling the action as a “provocation.” The incident involved the Australian guided-missile destroyer Brisbane and the Canadian frigate Ville de Quebec, which were reportedly monitored by Chinese naval and air forces. The People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command issued a statement condemning the warships for “trouble making and provocation.”
In its response, the command stated, “The actions of the Canadians and Australians send the wrong signals and increase security risks.” The statement emphasized that Chinese forces had effectively followed and warned the two vessels during their transit.
There has been no immediate reaction from the armed forces of either Australia or Canada regarding China’s assertions. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the Taiwan Strait, a crucial waterway that separates mainland China from Taiwan. The strait is viewed as an international waterway by many nations, including Taiwan, which has maintained a vigilant stance on military activities in the region.
Regional Context and International Navigation
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, the island remains alert to developments in the strait, stating it “dispatches appropriate air and naval forces to ensure the security and stability” of these waters. The strait is routinely transited by vessels from the United States Navy and allied nations, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and France, approximately once a month.
China, which considers Taiwan a part of its territory, has increased military pressure on the island over the past five years. This includes conducting military exercises in close proximity to Taiwan, raising concerns about regional stability. The Taiwanese government continues to reject claims of sovereignty made by officials in Beijing.
The Global Times, a state-backed newspaper in China, reported on the naval confrontation, reflecting the intense scrutiny surrounding military movements in this strategically important area. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as military activities continue to unfold in the Taiwan Strait.
