China has placed its troops on “constant high alert” in response to the transit of two ships, the “Johnson” of the United States and the “Ottawa” of Canada, through the Taiwan Strait. The move has raised tensions in the region, with China asserting its sovereignty claims over Taiwan. This article discusses the recent development and its implications.
China’s Response:
China’s Senior Colonel Shi Yi, from the People’s Liberation Army, stated that the Eastern Theatre Command organized naval and air forces to closely monitor the passage of the US and Canadian ships through the Taiwan Strait. He emphasized that troops in the region remain on high alert and are prepared to defend national sovereignty, security, and regional peace and stability.
Provocative Passage:
The statement notes that the US and Canadian ships, identified as “Johnson” and “Ottawa” respectively, had openly publicized their passage through the Taiwan Strait. Such actions are seen as provocative by China, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to reclaim it.
Taiwan’s Vulnerability:
Taiwan constantly lives under the threat of a Chinese invasion, given Beijing’s insistence on territorial claims over the self-ruled island. While the United States diplomatically recognizes Beijing over Taipei, it maintains strong unofficial relations with Taiwan, supporting the island’s right to determine its own future.
Freedom of Navigation Operations:
The transit of naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea by the United States and its Western allies is often referred to as “freedom of navigation” operations. These actions are intended to reinforce the status of these waterways as international, rather than under Chinese control. However, they have consistently irked Beijing, leading to increased tensions in the region.
For more updates stay tuned to FELA News!
Source: NDTV
