China says German naval ships in Taiwan Strait 'increase security risks'

Chinese military criticises Germany for increasing security risks in Taiwan Strait by sailing two vessels through the area

Image credit :- thehindu

China Criticizes Germany for Sailing Ships Through Taiwan Strait
China has accused Germany of heightening security risks in the Taiwan Strait after two German naval vessels sailed through the sensitive waterway. The frigate Baden-Wuerttemberg and the supply ship Frankfurt am Main traversed the strait on Friday, September 13, 2024, marking the first time in over two decades that the German navy has done so.

In response, China's military spokesperson Li Xi stated that "The German side's behaviour increases security risks and sends incorrect signals." The People's Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command also accused the German Navy of adding to security risks and sending "erroneous signals." China firmly opposes the actions and claims sovereignty over Taiwan and jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait.

Germany and many other countries argue that such voyages are normal and assert freedom of navigation in the international waterway. However, Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province and the Taiwan Strait as Chinese waters. China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning expressed firm opposition to the German ships' passage through the strait.

The German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed the ships' voyage, stating that it was part of their deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. and other nations, including Canada, have also sent warships through the Taiwan Strait in recent weeks.

China's military command warned that it would "resolutely counter all threats and provocations" and remain in a state of high alert. The heightened tensions between China and Germany over the Taiwan Strait passage highlight the ongoing geopolitical disputes in the region.