Sun Feb 16 20:17:51 UTC 2025: ## Canadian Warship Transits Taiwan Strait Amid Heightened Chinese Military Activity
**Taipei, Taiwan –** A Canadian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait on February 16th, prompting a strong response from China. The transit, the first by a Canadian naval vessel this year, followed similar passages by two US ships earlier in the month. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry reported detecting 24 Chinese military aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, conducting joint patrols near the island during the Canadian ship’s passage. Chinese military radio warned the Canadian vessel to alter course.
This incident comes amidst rising tensions in the region. In the 48 hours leading up to Wednesday morning, Taiwan detected a total of 62 Chinese military aircraft near its shores, a figure that coincides with the US ships’ transit. The US and its allies regularly conduct such transits to assert the international status of the Taiwan Strait, a move consistently condemned by China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory.
The Canadian Foreign Ministry stated that the transit demonstrates Canada’s commitment to maintaining freedom, peace, and openness in the Taiwan Strait. The increased Chinese military activity highlights the ongoing sensitivity of the region and the potential for further escalation. The recent transits by US and Canadian vessels underscore the continued international support for Taiwan, despite Beijing’s objections.
First Piper 