China says German naval ships in Taiwan Strait ‘increase security risks’
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Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province and claims jurisdiction over the body of water that separates the island from the Chinese mainland.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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BEIJING – China on Sept 14 accused Berlin of heightening security risks in the Taiwan Strait, a day after two German vessels sailed through the sensitive waters.
“The German side’s behaviour increases security risks and sends incorrect signals,” Chinese military spokesperson Li Xi said in a statement.
Beijing’s troops in the area would “resolutely counter all threats and provocations”, Senior Captain Li added.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed on Sept 13 that the frigate Baden-Wuerttemberg and the supply ship Frankfurt am Main sailed through the strait.
US military ships, as well as those operated by other countries, have often sailed through the sensitive waterway.
But the Baden-Wuerttemberg’s voyage was the first time in more than two decades that Berlin’s navy had done so, according to German media reports.
Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province and claims jurisdiction over the body of water that separates the island from the Chinese mainland.
Germany and many other countries argue that such voyages are usual, citing freedom of navigation.
Senior Capt Li said on Sept 14 that the People’s Liberation Army had sent sea and air forces to “monitor and warn off” the German vessels. AFP
