The People’s Liberation Army has strongly criticised Canada for sending a warship through the Taiwan Strait, accusing it of stirring tensions and misrepresenting legal principles.
Advertisement
In a statement issued early on Monday, the 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.
Advertisement
The Eastern Theatre Command statement reaffirmed that PLA forces remain on high alert and will resolutely counter any threats or provocations in the region.