Beijing, 27 February 2023 (TDI): In a statement released today, China expressed strong opposition to the United States (US) aircraft’s flight through the Taiwan Straits.
Army Senior Colonel Shi Yi, the Spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, reported, “the US P-8A anti-submarine patrol aircraft had flown over the Taiwan Straits, which had been publicly hyped up.”
Shi further stated, “the troops of the PLA Eastern Theater Command had been closely monitoring the patrol aircraft and maintaining vigilance throughout the entire course of the flight, ensuring that every movement was under control.”
“The theater command will continue to maintain high alert to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity”, he added.
Rising tension in China-US relationship
The US and Taiwan maintain unofficial relations including arms sales and diplomatic exchanges, which has been impacting the US-China relationship in recent years.
As a result, China repeatedly expressed its opposition to US-Taiwan cooperation, including arms sales to Taiwan and high-level interactions between US and Taiwanese officials.
Also, it warned the US against crossing its “red lines” on Taiwan. Despite this, the US has maintained its unofficial relations with Taiwan such as; arms sales, diplomatic exchanges, and visits by officials.
It is pertinent to note that although the US proclaims to adhere to the One-China principle, it also supports Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, including the World Health Organization, & advocates for Taiwan’s democracy and human rights.
Also read: China alleges US of violating International Law
China sees any attempt by foreign powers, especially the US, to interfere in its internal affairs as a threat to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
