The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command has closely tracked and monitored the Dutch frigate HNLMS De Ruyter during its transit through the Taiwan Strait, according to an official statement released on Friday.
Spokesperson Xu Chenghua confirmed that the command responded effectively to the vessel's movement. He emphasized that the PLA will remain on high alert to resolutely safeguard China's sovereignty and security, while ensuring the continued peace and stability of the region.
The transit follows a series of contentious actions in the South China Sea. Reports indicate that prior to entering the Taiwan Strait, the HNLMS De Ruyter illegally trespassed into China's Xisha Qundao. During this period, the frigate conducted multiple shipborne helicopter operations that violated China's territorial airspace.
These developments highlight the ongoing sensitivities surrounding maritime boundaries and airspace in Asia, as global powers navigate the complex security landscape of the region.
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PLA responds to Dutch frigate's transit through Taiwan Strait
cgtn.com
