China Condemns Passage of Australian, Canadian Warships in Taiwan Strait

China’s military expressed strong criticism on September 6, 2023, regarding the transit of Australian and Canadian warships through the Taiwan Strait. This sensitive waterway, which separates Taiwan from the Chinese mainland, remains a focal point of geopolitical tensions. The presence of the vessels was characterized by Beijing as “causing trouble” and “provoking.”

According to Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane were closely monitored during their passage. Shi stated, “On September 6, the Canadian frigate Quebec and the Australian destroyer Brisbane transited the Taiwan Strait, causing trouble and provoking.” He highlighted that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) deployed naval and air forces to supervise the entire transit, asserting that they effectively responded to the situation.

China’s Stance on Sovereignty

Shi further emphasized that the actions of Canada and Australia send “the wrong signals” and heighten security risks in the region. He noted, “Chinese troops remain on high alert at all times, resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty and security and regional peace and stability.” This statement underscores China’s longstanding position regarding Taiwan, which it views as a part of its territory.

The Taiwan Strait has been a contentious area, with China not ruling out the possibility of using force to assert its claims over Taiwan. In recent years, Beijing has increased military activity in the vicinity, including deployments of fighter jets and naval vessels. Taiwan, for its part, rejects China’s claims and maintains its self-governance.

The United States has routinely conducted naval operations in the Taiwan Strait, often sending ships through this strategically important route. Other Western allies, including Australia and Canada, have followed suit, although these transits are less frequent. In June 2023, China similarly criticized the United Kingdom for sending a navy patrol vessel through the strait, arguing that such actions “undermined peace and stability.”

As tensions continue to rise, the international community closely observes military movements in the Taiwan Strait, which remains a critical area for both security and diplomatic relations in the region.