Chinese military condemns Canadian warship’s transit of sensitive Taiwan Strait
The PLA Eastern Theatre Command issues strong criticism of Sunday’s passage by Canada’s naval frigate the HMCS Ottawa
In a statement issued early on Monday, the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command said its naval and aerial forces tracked and monitored the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Ottawa throughout its passage on Sunday.
“The Canadian side is deliberately causing disruptions and undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” said Senior Colonel Li Xi, spokesman for Eastern Theatre Command.
Li also condemned Canada for its public statements announcing that the transit was occurring, accusing Ottawa of distorting legal interpretations and misleading public opinion.
Beijing considers the Taiwan Strait as part of its territorial waters and opposes military activities by foreign powers in the area.
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The Eastern Theatre Command statement reaffirmed that PLA forces remained on high alert and would resolutely counter any threats or provocations in the region.