BEIJING — The Chinese military has issued a stern warning to Canada, asserting that the transit of Canadian warships through the Taiwan Strait and any visits by Canadian MPs to Taiwan are acts of provocation that jeopardize peace and stability in the region.

In a recent statement, the People’s Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command criticized Canada for what it termed “colluding with the United States” in activities that escalate tensions around Taiwan. The Chinese government consistently maintains that Taiwan is a part of its territory and regards any foreign military activity near the island as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.

The backdrop to this warning is the ongoing military maneuvers both in the vicinity of Taiwan and within its Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). Over a recent four-day period, approximately 150 Chinese aircraft were reported to have entered the ADIZ, heightening concerns among Taiwanese authorities and prompting cross-strait tensions.

Canada's Ministry of National Defence did not immediately respond to these assertions, but has previously stated its commitment to international law and freedom of navigation in the Taiwan Strait. The United States Navy regularly conducts operations in the area to demonstrate its standing alliance with partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

As tensions continue to escalate, both Beijing and Taipei are closely monitoring military movements and conducting their own operations to assert national rights and maintain strategic balance.